Boykins - Patricia Person Draper, 84, went to be with her Lord and Savior on December 24, 2016 after a long battle with Parkinson's disease. A beloved wife, mother, sister, grandmother, and friend, Pat was born in Boykins, VA on Sept. 13, 1932, the daughter of the late Pat and Eloise Person. A 1949 graduate of Boykins High School, she earned a two year business certificate from Madison College. Pat continued her education receiving a BS degree from ODU in 1973. Further pursuing degrees as she worked for Southampton Co. Schools, Pat earned her Masters and Course of Advanced Study. She was a dedicated educator working for Southampton Co. Schools from Sept. 1971 until she retired in June 1996 as the Title 1 Coordinator.

Pat's life was one that could best be described as both loving and serving. Whether in her home, classroom, church, or community, she lived in such a way that made a great impact on everyone. Pat was actively involved in numerous clubs and organizations including Boykins Woman's Club, Red Hatters, Delta Kappa Gamma, and Auxiliary member of the Southampton Gideon camp. A lifelong member of Boykins United Methodist Church, Pat was a devoted servant. She taught Sunday school, directed Vacation Bible School, assisted with food distribution, and sang in the church choir.

Pat is survived by her loving husband of 64 years, Lucian Felton "Sonny" Draper, children Lu Haywood and her husband Bill, of Newport News, Steve Draper and his wife Lisa of Boykins, and Sandy Black and her husband Jon of Aberdeen, NC. She is also survived by her five grandsons who loved their Grammy, Nathan Black, Trent Black, Chase Black, Will Black and Bryan Draper. Her brother Joe Person preceded her in death.

A service celebrating Pat's life will be held at Boykins United Methodist Church at 12 noon, Wednesday December 28, 2016. A reception will follow in the church fellowship hall. The burial will take place at 11AM Wednesday, December 28 2016 in Beechwood Cemetery, Boykins. The family wishes to thank Comfort Keepers ,Mike Mahanes and New Century Hospice for their devoted care. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to: Boykins United Methodist Church, P.O. Box 235, Boykins, Virginia; Gideons International, P.O. Box 55, Franklin, VA; Boykins Fire and Rescue, P.O. Box 347, Boykins, VA 23827 or American Parkinson Disease Association, 135 Parkinson Ave., Staten Island, NY 10305. Arrangements are by Wright Funeral Home. www.wrightfuneralhome.org