Patricia Lea Benham

Patricia Lea Benham, a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, October 14, 2025, at the age of 77. She was born on February 8, 1948, in Strang, Oklahoma, to Lawrence Stone and Vera Vernice Provence. Pat lived a life defined by love, strength, and creativity.

On September 3, 1965, she married the love of her life, Claude A. Benham, in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Together they shared 60 years of marriage, filled with devotion, laughter, and the joy of raising their daughter, Tori, born in 1966. Pat graduated from Copan High School in 1967 and remained deeply proud of her Oklahoma roots.

Pat worked in a variety of positions throughout her life. She began her career in the medical field, where she cared for others with compassion and dedication. Later, she transitioned into the insurance and banking industries, where she built lasting relationships and earned the respect of colleagues and clients alike. No matter the role, Pat brought kindness, integrity, and a strong work ethic.

From her youth, Pat had a passion for sports. She played basketball and softball and later became an enthusiastic fan—especially of football and her beloved Oklahoma Sooners Softball team. Her competitive spirit and loyalty never wavered.

Pat also had a gift for creativity. She poured love into her crafting, making afghans and quilts that brought warmth and beauty to the homes of her family and friends. These treasured pieces remain as lasting symbols of her care and generosity.

She was preceded in death by her parents; four siblings; two brothers-in-law; and her precious great-granddaughter, Emma Rose Nicholson.

Those left to honor her memory include her husband of 60 years, Claude; her daughter, Tori Benham Nicholson (Patrick Milligan); her grandchildren, Austin Nicholson (Audrey) and Grace Benham (Peyton Messick); her great grandson, Austin Nicholson Jr., who was the joy of her last years; her sister, Janis Wilson; her brother, Richie Provence; and many extended family members and dear friends.

Pat will be remembered for her fierce devotion to family, her playful sense of humor, and her generous heart. She leaves behind a legacy of kindness, resilience, and love that will be carried on by all who knew her.

A memorial service celebrating Pat’s life will be held at 11:00 AM on Wednesday, October 29, 2025, at St. James Church, 5050 E. 111th Street, Tulsa, Oklahoma 74137.

In lieu of flowers, the family encourages friends to honor Pat’s memory by spending time with your loved ones, watching a ballgame, or crafting something beautiful. Memorial contributions may be made to Wetumka First Methodist Church, St. James Church, or The Humane Society in Pat’s honor.

Family and friends may share memories online at www.brownfamilycares.com. Pat’s family entrusted her care, cremation, and service to Brown Funeral Home & Cremations, 231 E. Commercial St., Broken Arrow, Oklahoma 74012, 918-251-5331.