To know Pat Hearn is to cherish her. Her warmth, vibrant spirit, and delightful cheekiness instantly draw you in.
It’s no wonder that more than 160 family and friends journeyed to Narrabri, some from great distances, to celebrate Pat’s remarkable 90th birthday – a testament to a life lived fully and in many fascinating places.
Pat’s story began in London, England, where a chance encounter at her church’s young peoples guild meeting sparked a lifelong romance.
A spirited 18-year-old Pat greeted newcomer Brian Hearn with an enthusiastic welcome, inquiring about his attendance.
Brian’s dry, “Five years,” couldn’t deter the connection that blossomed.
Five years later, their love story took its next step with an engagement, followed by Brian’s departure for Malawi the very next day.
Their planned three-year separation proved too long; after just one year, Pat bravely sailed to Malawi (Africa) to marry her beloved.
Malawi became the birthplace of their first two daughters, Penny Morris and Debbie Buckner.
Brief returns to England punctuated their time abroad, but political unrest in Malawi led them to Yemen, where their son Dudley was born.
Again, instability prompted a move, this time to Uganda.
Five years later, their adventurous spirit led them to Australia by ship, where their youngest daughter, Abigail, completed their family.
In Narrabri, their family circle expanded to include a cherished foster sister, Vicky Dunn née Nelson.
While many in their sixties contemplate retirement, Pat and Brian embarked on another extraordinary chapter, answering a call to teach English in Afghanistan.
Their life together has been a tapestry of adventure and unwavering partnership. Life never dulls with Pat around.
Throughout her incredible journey, Jesus has been Pat’s constant anchor. Her children speak of a deep-rooted joy and faith that allowed her to navigate life’s challenges with resilience and celebrate its triumphs.
They see her as a Proverbs 31 woman, a blessing in their lives. Pat’s genuine love and care extend beyond her family; she embraces every opportunity to share her faith with those she meets.
Her daughters fondly recall learning the art of hospitality from their mother, whose home was always open for meals and fellowship. Friends and family universally describe Pat as vibrant, vivacious, genuine, warm, caring, loving, and a true character – someone whose antics can bring tears of laughter.
Adding a deeply personal touch to the celebration, her granddaughter Hannah Buckner Shoop wrote and sang a song, shared via video, to honour her grandmother: “Granny, Granny the ripples of your life have always reached me even if we’re parted by a big sea somehow, I have always known your love … and your example led the way for me to do the same as I follow Jesus to love the least of these.”
Her husband, Brian, offered heartfelt words, honouring Pat’s character, courage, spark, and the immeasurable love and joy she
has brought to his life and countless others.
He shared a touching sentiment, saying that while three people in a marriage might seem like a recipe for disaster, their shared faith in Jesus has been the “third person” that has beautifully bound them together through life’s highs and lows. Her children echoed this, encouraging anyone who doesn’t know Jesus to seek that same foundation.
The celebration itself was a labour of love, orchestrated by her children and two granddaughters, Jessica Promnitz and Hannah Buckner Shoop, who began planning the tribute months in advance. Their joy in honouring Pat’s 90 years of life, love, and adventure was evident in every detail.
Though unable to attend, her American grandchildren contributed a special touch by designing a magnificent cake, expertly
brought to life by baking artisan Janice Smith.
Her son Dudley and daughter-in-law Lisa-Marie generously provided and lovingly arranged a beautiful charcuterie table, assisted by another daughter-in-law, Kimberly.
The family also expressed deep gratitude to their wonderful church family at Narrabri Anglican Church for their invaluable support and the delicious food they contributed to the celebration.
Fun facts celebrating Pat’s remarkable journey:
* Her wedding cake was made onboard the ship to Malawi. It required dusting just before being served.
* Her father offered a poignant safety net with parting words as she went down the gangway to board the ship for Africa, telling her she could stay on the boat if she changed her mind, and they would somehow manage the fare.
* Her legacy includes a loving family of four children, 15 grandchildren, and 26 great-grandchildren.
*Pat and Brian have been married 68 years.
Pat Hearn’s 90 years are a vibrant tapestry woven with love, faith, adventure, and a remarkable ability to connect with and uplift everyone she meets.
Her life is a true celebration, and her impact on those around her is immeasurable.
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