Mary Patricia Belsterling

Our beloved, Mary Patricia (Patty) Belsterling, 81, passed away on February 23, 2024, in her Wyomissing residence surrounded by everything she loved, leaving behind a legacy of unconditional love and creativity. Her most precious creations, Eric (her son), Erin (her daughter), Riley and Finn Giblin (her grandchildren), survive her as well as her little animal kingdom comprised of Daisy, Sweetie Pie and Tilly.

Patty belonged to everyone who had the privilege of knowing her including the children of Cleveland Ave. who knocked on Miss Patty's door for their daily candy to the random stranger who was in need of anything Patty could provide. She was generous, kind and available to anyone, and everywhere she went she left her heart print. But it was Patty's home and garden that were her heaven on earth, and where she lived out her metaphor. It was there that her every possession and passion told of who she was-and she was effusive. Like her blooms and the treasures found among them, her garden was vibrant, mystical, welcoming and unforgettable and said, "Patty" everywhere one turned. Scattered among the petunias and coleus and vines were her nuggets of wisdom for any visitor needing to hear. And she not only heard but listened; she was 100% present to anyone who needed an ear. In those spaces, every sorrow was halved and every joy doubled because Patty just knew instinctively the words that would transform the occasion. Such was her life. She sowed and reaped relentlessly allowing no weed to enter the sacred environs she created. She was a goddess of growth and personal development guided by the simple command "to love one's neighbor as oneself." And she never wavered from that basic truth.

Born in McKees Rocks, PA, she was the daughter of the late Cassie (McLaughlin) Douds and Forrest (Jap) Douds, Sr. She graduated from Montour High School and the Art Institute of Pittsburgh. Her life's work as a distinguished floral designer became a known brand in our community and extended to venues outside the state where her stunning creations graced the settings for special events and weddings. She owned and operated her successful business, Arts N Flowers, for over thirty years.

In addition to her children and grandchildren, Patty is survived by her brother, Forrest Douds, Jr. and numerous nieces and nephews. Patty was predeceased by her husband of 53 years, Louis (Bucky) Belsterling. She was also predeceased by her brother, Paul Douds and sister, Sally Way.

A Celebration of Life will be held Saturday, March 9, at 10:00 a.m. at Kuhn Funeral Home, 739 Penn Ave., West Reading, PA 19611. In lieu of flowers, donations in Patty's name may be made to Hannah's Hope Ministries at 736 Upland Ave., Reading, PA 19607.