Patricia LaRue Jolley Hales

Common Roles/Uncommon Lives »

Patricia LaRue Jolley Hales was born in Provo, Utah.  She married Don “C” Hales and together they raised eight children and two foster children.  Her deepest devotion was to her family.  Patricia was an advocate for those without a voice, particularly children.  She served in the PTA at the local, legislative and state level.  Patricia was the PTA President for the state of Utah from 1989-1991.  Under her leadership the Utah PTA and State Office of Education formed the Utah Center for Families in Education; the first state-wide parent involvement and self-esteem conferences were held; PTA and KUED collaborated to present the first “Golden Apple” awards; and the first PTSA Convention convened in conjunction with the Utah PTA Convention.  Due to Patricia’s vision and PTA’s considerable efforts the 1992 Utah Legislature passed seven bills dealing with the management of the school trust lands.  Patricia was also involved in the arts through the Utah Symphony Guild, serving the arts in Utah and the outreach programs to schools and communities outside of Salt Lake City.  Patricia was diagnosed with cancer in 1991, a battle she fought for over 18 years, succumbing in 2010.  She served others who suffered with cancer giving encouragement, compassion, strength and hope in their time of need.