Patricia JoAnn "Pat" Van Eman, 96, of Brenham, Texas, passed away on October 9, 2026. She was born February 7, 1930, in Pittsfield, Illinois, to John A. Reed and Oralee Howard Reed. She and her husband, James "Jimmy" Van Eman, lived in Houston before making their home in Brenham.

A voracious reader and gifted artist, Pat had a lifelong passion for books and art. She was an avid supporter of the Nancy Carol Roberts Memorial Library, where her mural featuring beloved characters from children's stories and fairy tales graced the children's room for many years. Pat also enjoyed drawing, painting, and needlepoint, talents she shared with family and friends.

Pat had a special affection for the mountains of Colorado and spent her summers in Lake City for many years. She continued making the long drive from Brenham to Colorado on her own well into her 80s, returning each fall before the first snowfall. She enjoyed hosting close friends in both Brenham and Lake City, though few things pleased her more than sitting on her porch overlooking the mountains with a good book.

Pat was preceded in death by her husband, James "Jimmy" Van Eman, and her three sons, Ricky, Michael, and Kent Van Eman.

She is survived by her daughters-in-law, Debbie Van Eman and Lynn Van Eman; her grandchildren, Lauren and Kurt Alfred and Steven and Whitney Van Eman; her six great-grandchildren, Elizabeth, Lydia, and Andrew Alfred, and Judd, Georgia, and Cooper Van Eman; and her brother-in-law and sister-in-law, Charles and Marvalyn Van Eman.

In accordance with Pat's wishes, no funeral service will be held. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Nancy Carol Roberts Memorial Library in Brenham, Texas.

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Memorial Oaks Chapel. To post a tribute to the family, please visit www.memorialoakschapel.com