Honey Grove, Texas -- Patsy Reece Galloway, a longtime resident of Tyler, Texas, passed away on August 11, 2026, in Austin, Texas. She was born February 27, 1936, in Honey Grove, Texas, to James Sherwood Reece and Jessie Irene Reece.

Known to family and friends as Pat, she was a member of Pollard United Methodist Church in Tyler. She was previously a member of Glenwood United Methodist Church, where she was active in United Methodist Women.

Pat earned her B.A. in History from East Texas State College in Commerce, Texas, in 1958. When her husband’s work took them to North Dakota, she was hired as an elementary school teacher in Tioga. She later credited that experience, and the enthusiasm of her students, with encouraging her to pursue a career in education.

After relocating to Tyler, Pat returned to East Texas State University to obtain her teaching certification and later pursued graduate studies in library science. She taught at T.J. Austin Elementary School for three years before becoming the school librarian at Clarkston Elementary School in 1978. A natural teacher, Pat was passionate about reading and children’s literature and devoted her career to sharing that enthusiasm with generations of students. In 1988, she was selected as Teacher of the Year in recognition of her accomplishments and dedication to her students. She retired from Tyler Independent School District in 1998.

Pat had a lifelong interest in history and genealogy. She was a member of the Mary Tyler Chapter of the National Society Daughters of the American Revolution. She was also an active member and officer of the East Texas Genealogical Society and served as editor of its publication, The Quarterly.

Above all, Pat was a warm and caring person who was treasured by her family and friends. Her kindness, curiosity, and love of learning touched the lives of those who knew her and the many students she taught throughout her career.

Pat was preceded in death by her parents, James Sherwood and Jessie Irene Reece, and her sister, Sara Ann Reece. She is survived by her son, James Reece Galloway of Austin; her daughter, Susan Downman and husband David of Austin; her aunt, Esther Buchanan of Double Oak; and several close cousins.

A graveside service will be held on September 7, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Oakwood Cemetery in Honey Grove, Texas. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Pollard United Methodist Church in Tyler, Texas, or to the Oakwood Cemetery Association, P.O. Box 96, Honey Grove, Texas 75446.

To share a memory or leave a condolence, please visit www.coopersorrells.com