Patricia Ann Voelker

Patricia Ann Voelker, 85, of Lexington, South Carolina passed away April 28, 2026. Born in Birmingham, Alabama, Patricia grew up in Florida where she was a graduate of Seabreeze High School in Daytona Beach and earned bachelor’s and master’s degrees in education from Florida Technological University, now known as the University of Central Florida in Orlando. Patricia taught in elementary schools in Florida for many years before changing careers and working as a pastor for Metropolitan Community Churches, serving primarily in South Carolina. She returned to teaching in South Carolina prior to her retirement. However, Patricia did not stop educating and helping her community. She became an avid birdwatcher and led monthly bird walks at Saluda Shoals Park to spread her joy of birdwatching to people of all ages. She recorded books to tape for the local library system to give more options to readers and returned to elementary school classrooms as a volunteer.

Patricia is predeceased by her parents Jack and Sue Mixon; sister Betty Watson; son-in-law Elroy McConnell Jr.; step grandsons Elroy McConnell III and Nathan McConnell; and grandson Kelly McConnell. Patricia is survived by her daughter Amy Voelker; nieces Ginger Brengle and Rebecca Watson; and nephew Chip Watson.

Patricia requested that any donations be made to MADD South Carolina 421 Mission Court Irmo, SC 29063 phone 803-748-7333 or online https://madd.org/south-carolina