Patricia Gourley

Patricia Gourley OGDEN- Patricia Gourley, 82, was reunited with her parents and her much adored grandfather, Bobby, on Friday, June 22, 2012. She was born May 15, 1930 at the Dee Hospital, a daughter of Ira Joseph Bush and N. Bernice Bush. She spent an idyllic childhood in Ogden, Utah, attending Ogden High School, Utah State University and then Weber State College. “Miss Gourley” taught English in the Ogden City School District for nearly 45 years; the majority at Mount Ogden Junior High School. She was beloved by her students and by her fellow teachers. Pat enjoyed pointing out (to anyone who would listen) the lack of outlining knowledge in today’s kids, and frequently expounded upon the appropriate use of gerund phrases. A bibliophile, she preferred the classics – particularly the romantic novels of the Bronte sisters, Louisa May Alcott and Jane Austen. Her students will remember her yellow 1965 Corvette, her impeccable wardrobe, her perfectly coiffed beehive (requiring significant amounts of hairspray and a permanent), and that she was a demanding educator. Pat’s nieces and nephews could not go shopping with her without encountering former students. The reactions were always the same, “You were my hardest, but most favorite teacher.” Several exclaimed that she was the one teacher that taught them correct grammar, sentence structure and how to love the English language. Her family can only guess that she is now running around the spirit world instructing people on when to use “bring” and when to use “take.” Pat, may your journey bring you peace and joy – take our love with you, for we shall meet again. She is survived by her brother, Dr. I.M. Gary Gourley, 2 nieces, 1 nephew and 9 great grandnieces and nephews. The family would particularly like to thank the staff at The Cottage at the Legacy House of Ogden. You made Pat’s final years so much fun and filled with love and concern. The work you do is truly under recognized. Graveside services will be held Saturday, June 30, 2012 at 10:00 a.m. at Lindquist Washington Heights Memorial Park, 4500 Washington Blvd., Ogden. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Humane Society or to the ASPCA.