Patricia DeMour Cisson, 90, passed away on Thursday, February 15, 2024, after a long and adventurous life. She was born on October 22, 1933, in Detroit, Michigan, to Floyd and Blanch DeMour.
Patricia (Pat) moved to Phoenix Arizona as a child where in 1951, she graduated from West Phoenix High School. At an early age her talent as a dancer was recognized and she performed professionally into her early 20’s. As a young woman, Patricia met Arthur Cisson, who soon thereafter, began training as a naval aviator. Upon graduation as an aircraft carrier pilot, Pat and Art married in 1953, and traveled the breadth of the United States following his assigned tours from the West Coast to Key West, Florida. As the consummate Navy wife, Pat managed the household and their family of 6 children while Art served overseas tours, including two combat tours in Vietnam. Although she did not show the stress to her children, the burden of these tours and the uncertainty was considerable and she was greatly relieved when Art announced his retirement from active duty in 1977. The two of them bought 60 acres in West Fork, Arkansas where they raised cattle, sheep, and grandchildren!
The sacrifices of the partners of our military service men and women are not frequently acknowledged, but Art and their children never forgot her strength and courage during those difficult periods. Later in life, Patricia again faced challenges of equal magnitude as she lived with and was treated for, reoccurring breast cancer for almost 30 years.
Patricia is survived by six children: Robert Scott Cisson, Cheryl Freeland (Charles), Susan Bobbitt (Donald), John Cisson (Deanna), Katheryn Rea (Andy), Pamela Hohnerlein (Dean). In addition, she is survived by 16 grandchildren and 22 great-grandchildren.
Patricia’s family would like to thank the compassionate healthcare providers at the Willard Walker Hospice Home. It was clear through their care of Patricia, that for them their responsibilities did not represent a job, but a calling. The family requests that gifts to honor Patricia’s life be directed to the Willard Walker Hospice Home, 325 E. Longview St., Fayetteville, AR 72703.
Patricia’s life can be summed up in the following quote: ‘we need to dance with life and leave a brilliant light behind”. She will be dearly missed by her family and friends.
With Deepest sympathy, we the staff at Florida State University, Grounds Landscape & Operations would like to say we are sorry to hear about passing of your love one. May you seek and receive the strength and comfort that you will need in the healing process. May God richly bless the entire family.