Patricia Anna (Wright) Holbert

Patricia Anna Holbert F.N.P. went to her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ January 24, 2021 at Leigh Memorial Hospital in Norfolk, Virginia.

She was born in Asheville, North Carolina on May 1st, 1940, the daughter of Charles Henry and Laura Martin Wright. She is preceded in death by her sister Mary Dale Crisp, brother Edward Phillip Wright, and both parents.

Patricia is survived by her son William H. Holbert II of Virginia Beach, Virginia, and Dr. Laura Ann Bixler Ed.D. of Scottsdale, Az. She is also survived by her siblings Charles ‘Sonny’ Henry Wright Jr., Rebecca Roberts, David Patrick Wright, and James ‘Boodie’ Walker Wright. In addition to numerous nieces and nephews, she is survived by her close and dear friends Susan Besecker, Clarene Brown, and Carla Dennis along with Patricia’s precious cats Shadow and Bushy Tail.

After graduating from Biltmore Highschool, she worked briefly in nursing until marrying into the United States Navy. Patricia eventually settled in Virginia Beach, Virginia and continued her passion for serving others graduating magna cum laude from Norfolk State University with a bachelor’s degree in nursing. While working she attended a master’s program at the University of Virginia to obtain a nurse practitioners (NP) license in 1995.

As a NP Patricia worked for several years for the State of Virginia Public Health system in the western part of Virginia. After retiring from the health department, she continued her work in health care on the eastern shore of Virginia. During her time as a NP, she paid special attention to the migrant populations and those without insurance. Often providing health care for free. She finished her nursing career as a Professor at South University in Virginia Beach, Va. Many young nurses have benefitted from the expertise she obtained throughout her career.

A celebration of her life will be held January 31, 2021 at Groce Funeral Home at Lake Julian, 72 Long Shoals Rd, Arden. The family will gather from 2:00 PM until 2:30 PM, when the celebration will start. Family and friends are welcome to attend. Masks are required.

In lieu of flowers please donate to the Susan B. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation at www.komen.com.