Elizabeth Cecelia Patton

Liz Patton, age 83, of Ottawa, Kansas, passed away on Friday, March 13, 2026, at Rock Creek in Ottawa.

Elizabeth Cecelia Nilges was born on July 23, 1942, in Harris, Kansas, the daughter of Joseph Lawrence and Bertha Jane (Maley) Nilges. Liz grew up on a farm near Harris, where she attended a one-room schoolhouse and learned the values of hard work and family that she carried throughout her life.

On April 7, 1961, Liz was united in marriage to James Ray Patton, Jr. in Ottawa, Kansas. Following their marriage, they briefly lived with James's mother, Grace Patton. A short time later, their first son, Tom, was born, followed by their second son, Dan, the next year. In 1971, the family moved to Omaha, Nebraska, where they established deep roots and purchased their first home in 1972.

A dedicated mother and wife, Liz's life was a testament to her creative spirit and her love for others. In 1976, she expanded her care for children by purchasing a second home to open a daycare. Her entrepreneurial heart also led her to open a craft and boutique store called Crafty Liz. Liz was a gifted artisan who found joy in quilting, sewing, and crocheting special holiday items for those she loved. She was a gentle soul who adored children, cherished the company of her pet dogs, and found simple peace in watching and feeding the squirrels in her Omaha backyard.

In 2023, Liz moved to LaVista Assisted Living, eventually returning to Kansas in 2025 to be closer to family, residing at Vintage Park and then Rock Creek in Ottawa.

Liz was preceded in death by her parents, Joseph and Bertha Nilges; and her son, Thomas Dean Patton, on September 5, 2021.

She is survived by her husband, James Ray Patton, Jr. of the home; one son, Daniel Patton and wife Helen of Elk Grove, California; and one grandson, Liam Patton. She also leaves behind a host of cousins and many friends who will dearly miss her kind and crafty spirit.

Funeral services will be held at 10:00 AM on Saturday, March 21, 2026, at Feuerborn Family Funeral Service in Garnett, Kansas. Burial will follow in the Garnett Cemetery.

The family suggests memorial contributions to the American Heart Association, and they may be left in care of the funeral home. Condolences for the family may be left at www.feuerbornfuneral.com.