Patricia Donovan Hope passed away on October 29, 2025, in Nashville, Tennessee. She was born in Tallassee, Alabama, and lived in Montgomery until 1956, when her family moved to the Cahaba Heights area of Birmingham. She attended Cahaba Heights Elementary and Junior High and graduated from Shades Valley High School in 1966, where she was a member of Kappa Gamma sorority. In 1970, she earned a degree in Business Education from Auburn University. Pat was a proud member of Alpha Omicron Pi and a Lifetime Auburn Alumna.
She was preceded in death by her husband, James “Bud” Hope, and her parents, James and Dorothy Harper Donovan. She is survived by her sons, Jay (Kristen) and Ben (Katie), her brother, Tim Donovan, her stepchildren, Barbara Hope Shannon and Chris Hope, and her grandchildren, Beth, Brian, Christopher, Harper, Stella, Ruby, Dorothy, and James.
Pat retired from the Social Security Administration, where she served as a Claims Representative. After retiring, she continued her lifelong commitment to community through volunteer work with the Miss Alabama Pageant, the Hall of Fame Bowl, and the All American Bowl. She served on the PTO boards of Cahaba Heights Elementary, Gresham Middle School, and Shades Valley High School, where she was recognized as “Parent Volunteer of the Year” in 2002. Pat also played an important role in organizing every Shades Valley reunion, as well as her beloved AOPi and family gatherings.
She was a lifelong member of Cahaba Heights United Methodist Church and an active participant in the Mixed Blessings group. Pat was also a member of Inverness Country Club and Riverchase Country Club.
Pat had a remarkable gift for friendship and laughter. She cherished her First Thursday group of Shades Valley friends, her Friday night crew at Pablo’s, and her Sunday lunch group at The Iguana Grill, which she affectionately called “The Lizard.” She maintained close bonds with her childhood friends and extended family, always bringing warmth, humor, and kindness wherever she went.
In addition to her devotion to family and friends, Pat had a deep love for animals. She gave generously of her time and resources to animal rescue organizations that helped find homes for abandoned and surrendered pets.
Pat had a quick wit and an infectious laugh that made every gathering brighter. She will be remembered for her warmth, humor, and genuine care for others.
A celebration of her life will be held on December 6, 2025, at 11 a.m. at Cahaba Heights United Methodist Church.
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