Patricia Elaine McAlister

Patricia Elaine Hill McAlister, 78, lovingly known as Pat and Patty and Nana, was born on January 26, 1948, to James and June (Lello) Hill. She lived a life that reflected her deep Christian faith, her generous heart, and her unwavering love for her family and friends. To know Pat was to experience kindness, warmth, and the gentle spirit of a woman who truly lived to serve others.

Pat graduated from C.E. Donart High School in 1966. On October 27, 1967, she married Ronald Wayne Hill. From this union came two cherished children, Robert Wayne Hill and Lori Ann (Hill) Battles. Pat and Ron shared 16 years of marriage and the blessing of building a family together.

Later, on March 22, 85, she married the love of her life, Christopher Eugene McAlister. Their marriage of 39 beautiful years was filled with faith, laughter, and devotion. Through this marriage, Pat gained two stepsons, Jeffrey McAlister and Brian McAlister, and together she and Chris welcomed their son, James Christopher McAlister. Pat embraced her role as wife, mother, and stepmother with unconditional love and grace.

Pat dedicated many years of faithful work to her community. She worked as a bookkeeper at Hills Produce, then served with the USDA before beginning a long career with the Social Security Administration until her retirement. After retiring, she continued to serve others by working at Pawnee Public Schools. She began as a Pre-K aide but soon found her true joy in the school library. Pat loved books, and the library became her happy place. She especially enjoyed organizing and hosting the annual book fair, delighting in seeing children discover the joy of reading.

Her greatest devotion, however, was to her faith. Pat was a dedicated member of Masham Baptist Church. She faithfully served in the nursery, worked with youth groups, and attended Falls Creek on several occasions. If a child needed a ride to church, Pat would gladly go into town to pick them up and make sure they got home safely. She never hesitated to serve wherever there was a need. She also lovingly decorated the church for every season and holiday, filling it with flowers and beauty that reflected her own vibrant spirit.

Pat’s love for her church shined especially bright during the Christmas and Easter seasons. She joyfully helped organize and bring to life the church’s holiday plays each year. Whether she was sewing costumes by hand, helping design and build the sets, decorating the stage with thoughtful detail, or stepping into a role herself, Pat poured her whole heart into every production. She believed these plays were more than performances, they were a way to share the story of Christ’s love with the community. Her creativity, dedication, and servant’s heart made each program special, and she rarely missed the opportunity to be involved. For Pat, serving behind the scenes was just as meaningful as standing in the spotlight, and she considered it a blessing to help tell the greatest story ever told.

Pat had the most loving and giving nature. She was known for her wonderful cooking and her open-door hospitality, no one ever left her home hungry. She loved dancing, and she and Chris often found time to share a dance together. She also enjoyed making jewelry and sharing her handmade creations with those she loved.

Above all, Pat treasured her family. She was deeply loved by her children, her grandchildren, and her many dear friends. Her legacy of faith, compassion, and generosity will live on in each of them.

Pat is survived by her children: Rob Hill and wife Tracy; Lori Battles and husband James; and James McAlister. She is also survived by her stepsons, Jeff McAlister and Brian McAlister and wife Shinese Perinon-McAlister. She was a proud grandmother to 10 grandchildren: James Battles, III, Makinzie Hill, soon to be grandson-in-law Maliki Adams, Joshua Battles, Reilly McAlister, Finely McAlister, Brody McAlister, Nia McAlister, Elias McAlister, Trent Frye, and Aiden Wright.

She is also survived by her beloved mother, June Pace; her sisters, Twila, Debbie, and Jacque; along with many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and treasured friends.

She was preceded in death by her devoted husband, Christopher Eugene McAlister; her father, James Hill; her brother, Richard Hill; and her sister, Carol Moss.

Pat’s life was a testimony of faith in action. She loved deeply, gave freely, and served faithfully. The seeds of kindness she planted in countless hearts will continue to bloom for generations to come. Well done, good and faithful servant.

Funeral services for Pat will be held at Masham Baptist Church on Saturday, March 7, 2026 at 2 p.m. The family is deeply grateful for the love and prayers during this time.

Arrangements are under the care of Poteet Funeral Home.

In lieu of flowers, Pat’s heartfelt wish was that donations be made to Masham Baptist Church, a place she dearly loved and faithfully served for so many years. The family believes there is no better way to honor her giving spirit than by supporting the church that meant so much to her.