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Minnie Lou Patray, age 90, of Starke, Florida went to her heavenly home on January 29, 2022, at North Florida Regional Medical Center in Gainesville, FL. She was born in Gainesville, FL on May 15, 1931, to the late Lucian Otis Hazen and Frankie Martin Hazen. Minnie Lou was a lifelong resident of Starke and graduated from Bradford High School. Shortly after high school Minnie Lou met and married the love of her life, Ernie Don Patray and together they spent 50 wonderful years. She had a passion for teaching and earned her Associates Degree from the University of Florida in Elementary Education and began teaching at Starke Elementary School. During this time Minnie Lou became a mother to three beautiful children Donna, Lucian “Keith”, and Mark. She was very driven, and she didn’t stop there. Minnie Lou decided to enroll into the University of Florida and earn her master’s degree in Elementary Education. After earning her master's degree, she continued teaching at Starke elementary and briefly transferred to Brooker Elementary School but found her way back to Starke Elementary. Minnie Lou retired from Starke Elementary, but never truly left the school system. She spent her retirement being a teachers aid in her daughter’s classroom and helping at the school wherever needed. Minnie Lou enjoyed attending and worshipping her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ at the First Presbyterian Church of Starke. She was an avid reader who love reading all books, but her favorites were anything mysterious. More than anything Minnie loved her family, especially her grandchildren and nothing made her prouder than seeing them accomplish their goals in life. She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, and beloved dogs, FeFe and Leo. Minnie Lou is survived by her children, Donna (Jeffrey) Jackson of Starke, FL, Lucian “Keith” Patray of Deland, FL, and Mark Terrell (Jean) Patray of Starke, Fl; grandchildren, Gary Don Brewer, Joshua Brewer, Marcus Patray, Jacob Patray, Caleb (Ashlyn) Patray; great grandchildren, Megan (Cody) Tillman, Marcus Patray II, and Leslie Patray; soon to be great granddaughter, Maddie Kay Starr Tillman; best friend, Betty Groves. A Private Celebration of Minnie Lou’s life will be held at a late date. In lieu of flowers the family request to please make donations to First Presbyterian Church of Starke, FL to assist with their building funds 921 E Call Street Starke, FL 32091 (904)-964-7937. Arrangements are under the care and direction of V. Todd Ferreira Funeral Services and Archie Tanner Memorial Chapel, Starke, Fl. 904-964-5757.

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Minnie Lou Patray

May 15, 1931 - January 29, 2022