Obituary: Patricia McGown Rockenhauser

Patricia McGown Rockenhauser, 94, passed away in her home on August 5, 2025, surrounded by family and friends. Born on April 20, 1931, in Newell, West Virginia to Bill and Sue McGown, she lived a full life of love and service.

A service celebrating Pat’s life will take place at 11:00 AM, Thursday, August 7th, 2025, at Westminster United Methodist Church. The family will receive friends following the service in the fellowship hall. For those unable to attend in person, the service will be livestreamed by the church.

Pat graduated from the University of West Virginia. On August 26, 1954, she married the love of her life, Henry “Rocky” Rockenhauser. They moved to Dover, Ohio, where she began her teaching career. In 1973 the family moved to Kinston, NC where they enjoyed golfing, biking, watching sports, traveling, and spending time with friends and family. Pat took her love of golf to a whole new level of competition by winning four awards at the North Carolina State Amateur Golf Association and being the 1996 Club Champion at the Kinston Country Club. When not on the golf course, she volunteered her time and talents to help others. Westminster United Methodist Church and several organizations promoting education were at the top of her list.

Pat is remembered for her kindness, strength, and unwavering commitment to those she loved. She never met a stranger and was a loyal friend to all she knew. Her personality, sweet smile, and sincere hugs could brighten anyone’s day. Pat was a tender-hearted and giving person, who placed others before self. She was always ready to help and pray with a friend in need. The world has lost a loving soul, but Heaven has gained a true angel.

Pat was proceeded in death by her parents, her husband of 64 years, Rocky, and her brother, Bill McGown Jr. She is survived by her daughter, Debbie Chused and husband Paul; son, Jim Rockenhauser and wife Sandy; sister, Nancy McFeely and husband Jerry; three grandchildren, seven great-grandchildren, and several nieces and nephews.

The family would like to express their heartfelt appreciation to Connie and Jimmy Cousins, Pearlie Davis, Lou and Sam Jones, and numerous friends for their love and support throughout the years.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Lenoir Community College Foundation for the Pat Rockenhauser Educational Scholarship, PO Box 188, Kinston, NC 28502.

Arrangements made by www.edwardsfhc.com