Patricia Dennis Obituary

On August 20, 2025, Patricia "Patty" E. Dennis, 78, of Columbia, SC was joyfully greeted in Heaven. She was born on May 1, 1947 in Leavenworth, Kansas to Rev. Dr. James and Mildred Rogers. Her father was the National Director of Chaplain Services of the VA hospital which allowed their family to travel until Patty found her home in Columbia, SC. In her early years, her father would often bring her to sing for the veterans accompanied by her mother on the piano. This began her service for community and love of her Heavenly Father.

Patty graduated from Lower Richland High School where her enthusiasm of life shined though as Head Cheerleader. She went on to graduate from Limestone College with a Bachelor's degree in elementary education. After decades of teaching, she returned to the classroom as a student and received her Masters of Education in learning disabilities from Francis Marion University. Her post graduate work was completed at the University of South Carolina and Landmark College.

In the classroom, Patty created dynamic friendships with her fellow teachers and a unwavering love for young students. Children were always eager to be in Mrs. Dennis classroom. She was driven by a true understanding of the English language, a grammar whiz, and the love of reading. She devoted the last chapter of her teaching career to The Learning Center at Heathwood Hall, improving the lives of students with a variety of learning disabilities and special needs. This allowed her the joy of working one on one.

Patty was proud to watch her son Grady fulfill his talents on stage and continued her cheering at Grant's games, especially when Randy was coaching. She was a classically trained coloratura soprano and filled the church with her voice. She was a fierce but gracious state champion tennis player, savvy Bridge and Rummy Cube opponent, an avid reader and a master puzzler especially nature, dogs, and any animal puzzle.

Patty was a good friend to all she met. She often quoted her mother, "to have a friend you have to be a friend."

She loved her bacon crisp and her bakery items sweet like her.

Preceded in death by her parents, Rev. Dr. James and Mildred Rogers, brothers in law Richard Garick Sr. and Edward McWilliams; and her beloved dogs, Travis, Mace, Nick, Gamble, Lulu, Maggie May, Bob, Barkley, Maggie, and Molly.

Survived by her devoted husband of 53 years, Randall G. Dennis Sr, dedicated sons, R. Grady Dennis Jr. (Chris) and Grant M. Dennis (Margaret-Ann), her Irish setter, Rosie, grand dog, Bruce, and granddaughter, Keeley. She is also survived by cherished siblings, Anne McWilliams, Lousie "Tripp" Johnson (Jack), and James E. Rogers Jr. (Sharon) along with many nieces and nephews.

Services will be held on Monday, August 25, 2025 at 11am at St. John's Episcopal Church 2827 Wheat Street Columbia, SC 29205. The family will receive visitors after the service at the church.

In lieu of flowers, please make a donation in Patty's name to the animal rescue or shelter of your choice. She would want all of the dogs.