Patricia Killingsworth Lashley died peacefully in her sleep on Aug. 2, 2026, after a long illness. She was 91. Her devoted husband, Donald W. Lashley, has been at her side for nearly 28 years

An accomplished woman of style, graciousness, talent and creativity, Patricia was a successful interior designer and a loving, loved wife, mother and grandmother, called “Mimi.”

Born in Upper Darby, PA on Sept. 14, 1934, Patricia was the only child of Henry Martin Killingsworth of Barnwell, SC and Anna (Anne) Meade Killingsworth of Philadelphia.

Her father’s engineering career with General Electric took them to Coral Gables, FL and Atlanta. Always one with great imagination, Patricia enjoyed a light-hearted childhood of inventiveness,

Her early wonderment involved flowers, and flowers remained a touchstone and a passion. She often quipped that had she not been an interior designer, she likely would have become a florist.

After the sudden death of her father, 11-year-old Patricia and her widowed mother relocated, eventually settling in College Park, MD. She graduated from the University of Maryland, having earned a bachelor’s degree in interior design.

Her first marriage brought her to Tokyo, where her then-husband was an administrator for the university’s post-war GI education program. She was forever fascinated by Japanese culture and design aesthetic.

Stateside, while raising children Cynthia and Tim Lescalleet, the family lived in Maryland and Lexington, MA (twice). This busy time included family outings that shared her love of art, music, architecture, museums and theater, especially musical theater. She also hunted for an old home to restore.

Living in a historic town further fed her lifelong interest in historic preservation. After her first marriage ended, she moved from Lexington to Concord, MA, where she served on the Concord Historical Commission.

Professionally, Patricia was noted for her design vision and talent for creating beautiful, well-appointed spaces. Sometimes, just a small decorative tweak by her could make an immediate impact -- and improvement.

After earning credentials with the American Society of Designers, she served as a vice chairman of the New England chapter and as historic preservation chairman.

Her further studies included the Musee des Arts Decoratifs in Paris, the Victoria and the Albert Museum in London, and preservation coursework at Boston University and Harvard University. She also taught furniture history at the Boston Architectural Center and residential interior design at Harvard ‘s Graduate School of Design Professional Development.

Her design studio, Killingsworth & Co. Interiors, handled residential projects. Among the shelter publications that featured her work: Boston Globe’s At Home section. It showcased her restored home in Concord, the historic Sanborn School House.

That article fed fate. Don saw it, recognized her name from university and called her. Their unexpected reunion eventually led to a joyful marriage of devotion of 27 years. A well-matched pair, they shared an optimistic outlook and zest for life.

They “took the scenic route.” They gathered with friends. They read. They traveled. They enjoyed classic music playing in the background at home. They dined rather than just ate. They shared fallow times and health challenges. They tended to their home, their interests and each other.

Through travels with Don, dear friends or family, she visited much of Europe, Egypt, China and Moscow. In the U.S., seeing the Grand Canyon was a life goal met. Sante Fe’s art scene especially delighted her, leading to a renewed interest in watercolor painting. Naples, FL became a winter escape for her and Don.

On Cape Cod, Chatham became a beloved respite and a family haven for 35 years. Dubbed “Camp MimiDon,” the antics included talent shows, sunset cruises, puzzles, highly competitive croquet, and an annual family photo -- with and without cooperation.

As the family’s matriarch, she stewarded connections and upheld traditions, shared lore and dispensed what family called “Mimi-isms.” Her unparalleled table setting and use of themes made every gathering an occasion. Handmade holiday ornaments and cards usually came booby-trapped with confetti. Brownies always awaited visiting grandchildren. Her one-on-one escapades celebrated how each was an individual, special and adored. She also reminded them of the importance of good manners and proper posture.

Patricia appreciated both decorum and whimsey. Her hospitality drew upon the gracious tenets of her Southern roots, which included membership in Daughters of the American Revolution. Resolute and independent, she was a relentless negotiator. She also loved a good polka dot motif, even on glassware -- something the family observes as a portion marker when serving adult beverages.

Patricia collected unusual, often antique accessories, iconic hats, snazzy canes and many, many friends. She was a member of two book clubs, the Chilton Club in Boston, the Concord Museum, and the Garden Club of Concord, where for many years she spearheaded the Christmas wreath decoration project.

Patricia is also survived by her daughter Cynthia Lescalleet Lokken (Roald) of Houston; their children Erica Lokken (Jeff Hebert) of Seattle and their two young children; Neil T. Lokken of Los Angeles; and Elaine M. Lokken of CT.; and her son T.M. (Tim) Lescalleet (Marie) of Southborough, MA; their children Nolan T. Lescalleet (Katie Monahan) of Framingham, MA; Parker J. Lescalleet of Southborough; and Arianna M. Lescalleet of Southborough. She is also survived by Don’s son Peter S. Lashley (Aubrey) of California and their children. Don’s daughter Sarah Brooke Lashley pre-deceased her.

The family appreciates all the caregivers who offered Patricia comfort and support during her health challenges.

Dee Funeral Home is handling arrangements. Her burial is a private family event. A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.