Patricia Arlene McFarland

Patricia Arlene Walter McFarland

December 4, 1942 - October 20, 2026

Patricia Arlene Walter McFarland, 83, passed away on October 20, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of faith, compassion, generosity, adventure, and service to others.

Born on December 4, 1942, in Sandwich, Illinois, Patricia was the daughter of George Hays Walter and Vivian Edna Suppes Walter. She grew up in Falls Church, Virginia, where she graduated from George Mason High School. She went on to earn a Bachelor of Science degree in Physical Therapy from the University of Maryland's Baltimore campus.

At a time when many women were not encouraged to pursue professional careers, Patricia chose a different path. Determined to make a meaningful contribution through her work, she pursued a career in physical therapy, dedicating her professional abilities to improving the lives of others. Through her knowledge, skill, and compassionate care, she helped countless individuals regain strength, mobility, and independence. For Patricia, physical therapy was more than a profession; it was an opportunity to make a lasting difference in people's lives.

Patricia also had an adventurous spirit and a love for experiencing the world. Throughout her life, she lived and traveled extensively, exploring South America, Europe, Asia, and Australia. These experiences gave her a broad perspective on life and an appreciation for people from different cultures and backgrounds.

Central to Patricia's life was her Christian faith, which she demonstrated not simply through what she believed but through how she lived. Her faith was evident in her compassion for others, her willingness to serve, and her generosity toward those in need. She understood that loving one's neighbor meant more than offering kind words; it meant taking action, even when doing so required personal sacrifice.

Perhaps one of the most remarkable expressions of Patricia's faith was her willingness to open her heart and home to others. She believed in giving people opportunities for a fresh start, and she demonstrated that belief through action. Over the years, she welcomed individuals into her home, sometimes for months or even years, providing them with a place to stay, encouragement, and the opportunity to rebuild their lives. Her generosity was not merely expressed in words but demonstrated through personal sacrifice and a genuine desire to help others succeed.

Whether through her professional work, her travels, or her hospitality, Patricia lived a life that reached far beyond herself. She recognized the potential in others and was willing to invest her time, resources, and energy to help them move forward. Her legacy is reflected not only in the family she loved but also in the many lives she touched along the way.

Patricia was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Robert Montford McFarland IV; her parents, George and Vivian Walter; and her sister, Roberta Letham.

She is survived by her son, Robert Montford McFarland V; her daughter, Pamela Suppes McFarland Hiller; nine grandchildren; and two grandchildren-in-law.

Patricia will be remembered as a woman of faith, determination, independence, generosity, and compassion. She embraced opportunities that took her around the world while never losing sight of the opportunities to make a difference in the lives of those around her. Her willingness to help others heal, grow, and begin again will remain an enduring part of her legacy.

Her life was a testament to a faith lived out through action and to the difference one person can make when she chooses to use her abilities, opportunities, and resources for the benefit of others.

Funeral and Memorial Arrangements

Family Viewing

Saturday, October 31, 2026, at 10:00 a.m.

A. S. Turner & Sons Funeral Home

2773 N. Decatur Road

Decatur, GA 30033

Graveside Service

Saturday, October 31, 2026, at 11:30 a.m.

Westview Cemetery

1680 Ralph David Abernathy Boulevard SW

Atlanta, GA 30310

Celebration of Life

Saturday, January 9, 2027, at 2:00 p.m.

Chapel at The Village at Rockville

9701 Veirs Drive

Rockville, MD 20850

Reception

Saturday, January 9, 2027, from 3:00 to 5:00 p.m.

Enrichment Center at The Village at Rockville

9803 Veirs Drive

Rockville, MD 20850

Family and friends are invited to gather to remember Patricia at her celebration of life to honor the enduring legacy of faith, love, and generosity she leaves behind.