Boyce L. Tidwell (Patton) was born July 28, 1931 in Afton, Oklahoma to Vennie and Frank Patton. She passed away December 28, 2018 in Tulsa, Oklahoma.

Grandma and I had a tradition with the obituaries. We used to read them together over coffee (her coffee was the best), criticizing, marveling, or giggling as the situation required. Even after moving away, we continued our game by clipping and mailing the best ones to each other. She always told me I'd write her obituary one day, but still I feel unprepared. To summarize a life in just a few words is no small task, especially with someone so special. Grandma knew how to put on a brave face though, so with that I'll try my best.

Grandma was a perfectionist, a lifelong learner, an avid gardener, and an excellent cook. She often said, "I never met a potato I didn't like." She enjoyed horse racing as well, and I spent many summers at the track with her.

Boyce married Benjamin H. Tidwell in 1949. Together, they raised two daughters, Kathy and Cyndy. Grandma spent more than 30 successful years in the insurance Industry, a career which heavily influenced her daughter Cyndy to enter the field. She was also an entrepreneur and partner in several businesses with her husband Ben, and daughter Kathy.

Boyce was preceded in death by her husband of 69 years, Ben Tidwell, brother Frank (Gene) Patton, and sister Janell Stanbery.

To my cousins Brian and Kendall, my sister Holly, and me, she was an amazing Grandma. But before that, she was Sis to her six brothers and sisters, Wife to Ben, and Mom to Cyndy and Kathy. And since, she was Grandma Great to Christian, Tyler, Victor, Kendall, Antonio, Sarah, and Benjamin. We are all grateful for all the memories we have of her and the time we spent together. A Celebration of Life will be held Thursday, January 3, 2019 at Moore's Rosewood Chapel, 2570 S. Harvard in Tulsa.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to Shriner's Hospitals for Children or a charity of your choosing.