New Hampton, NH- Patricia M. King was a woman of fierce independence, enduring strength, and unmistakable resolve. Born on January 8, 1932, Pat grew up in Revere, Massachusetts, and later lived for many years in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, carrying a lifelong fondness for the salt air and the beach.

Resourceful and spirited, Pat lived life entirely on her own terms. For over forty years, after leaving Fort Lauderdale, she made her home in a converted hunting cabin in New Hampton, New Hampshire. There, alongside her beloved dog, Lily, and her cat, Runaway, she tapped her own maple syrup and tended gorgeous gardens that framed each side of her home. An exceptional cook and true to her self-reliant nature, she used her mother's 100-year-old cookstove not only to turn out delicious meals, but to heat her home through every season.

Pat loved a good party and was instantly comfortable talking to anyone she met. Accessorized with her signature lipstick and a glass of red wine, she became the belle of the ball-always eager to entertain with her colorful recounting of previous escapades, her knowledge and wisdom, and of course her spirited rendition of an old standard. When the music fit, she was the first one on the floor, taking every opportunity to dance with complete abandon.

Her deep compassion for animals was central to who she was. During the 1970s, Pat served as a board member of the Animal Protective League, Inc. in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, as well as the Humane Society. She earned immense respect across South Florida for investigating some of the toughest animal abuse allegations in Broward County-once intervening to save a German Shepherd from being euthanized for dissection by a sixth-grade science class.

Back in New Hampshire, she shared countless journeys with Ray Hardy, her loyal New Hampton friend of over 35 years and companion in adventure, riding together in his well-traveled truck-including a memorable road trip to deliver donated books to children across Appalachia, which turned into an unexpected mission when they rescued an emaciated dog from the side of the road and brought it home. Alongside her rescue efforts was an equally passionate engagement with local and national politics. Unapologetic in her liberal beliefs, Pat was never one to keep her opinions quiet-once mounting a proud display of Hillary Clinton atop the roof of her home. Whether defending animals or standing up for her principles, Pat was a staunch, outspoken advocate who never hesitated to speak her mind.

Pat enjoyed the past five years with the unwavering support of her dear friend Betsy Baumgartner, to whom deepest thanks will be forever extended.

She is survived by her daughters, Carol Goodyear (Peter) of Connecticut and Debbie Tragethon (Dave) of Oregon, whose reunion brought laughter and new adventures to her later years; her nephews, John King of Oregon and Chris Young of Massachusetts; her niece, Elizabeth Young of Massachusetts; her special great-nieces, Kerrie Sesto and Mollie Filmore, and their father, Craig Filmore, all of Massachusetts; and countless beloved family members, friends, and neighbors who filled her life with joy, laughter, and celebration.

She was predeceased by her mother, Julia King Rubén; her brother, George King, Sr., and sister-in-law, confidante, and best friend, Mary A. King; her sister, Barbara King Young (survived by her husband, Demos); her nephews, George King, Jr. (survived by his wife, Maureen), and Tom King; her nieces, Patty Young and Julie King Filmore; and her dear friend, Ray Hardy.

The family would like to thank nurses April, Sapphire, Amber, Joi, Melissa, and Heidi at Golden View Health Care Center, Meredith, New Hampshire, for their compassionate support of Pat during the past five weeks. They treated her not just as a patient, but as a friend.

The Mayhew Funeral Home, Meredith, New Hampshire, is in charge of arrangements. A celebration to honor Pat's extraordinary life will be held in the future.

In keeping with Pat's wishes, donations can be made online via the Protectors of Animals (East Hartford, CT) website (please note in memory of Pat), or checks made out to Protectors of Animals may be sent directly to Carol Goodyear, 152 Hunter Drive, West Hartford, CT 06107.

Pat was deeply loved and will be forever remembered by all who crossed her path.