Patricia Psalm Turnberg

Patricia “Patty” Turnberg (Philippbar) passed away at home on January 18, 2025, in Seattle, Washington holding hands with her husband Wayne and daughter Sophia Dodd. She was a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend who touched the lives of many with her warmth, humor, and generosity.

A proud Painesville, Ohio graduate of Harvey High School’s Class of 1969, Patty went on to earn her Bachelor of Arts from Miami University and Master of Public Administration from the University of Washington. Throughout her life, she had an extraordinary ability to bring people together. Whether hosting lively gatherings or fostering deep connections among friends and colleagues, she created spaces filled with laughter and love. Her legendary parties were not only warm and inclusive but often featured talent showcases where guests shared their voices and gifts.

Patty was a natural matchmaker—not only in love but in friendships and professional relationships as well. She delighted in introducing people who would go on to form lasting bonds. Her quick wit and infectious humor made every moment spent with her a joy!

Her passion for making a difference extended beyond her personal life into her professional endeavors in the nonprofit sector. However, it was teaching yoga that truly fulfilled her soul. When COVID-19 impacted everyone, Patty decided to offer a free online 20 minute Chair Yoga class on Tuesday and Thursday mornings to help everyone stay physically, mentally, and emotionally healthy which she continued teaching into 2025.  She cherished guiding her students through their practice, finding immense joy in sharing movement and mindfulness with them.

Patty embraced life with enthusiasm—whether playing pickleball, practicing yoga, or traveling to new places. But above all else, she treasured being a grandmother. Her granddaughter Brooklyn brought her immeasurable happiness, and she poured boundless love into their time together.  You can still find her on her Patty Turnberg Yoga website (https://pattyturnbergyoga.com/).

Patty is survived by her loving husband Wayne Turnberg, her daughter Sophia Dodd and son-in-law Alex Dodd; her cherished granddaughter Brooklyn; her sister Beth Shephard and husband John, nephew LJ, grandniece Hanna and grandnephew Hunter, niece Beth Andreassi and husband Adrian, nephew Scott Gallo and grandnieces Maddie, Lexie and Olivia Andreassi. She was predeceased by her sister Faith, father George, mother Gladys, and nephew Ian Shephard.

Patty offers thanks to the National Institutes of Health, Kaiser Permanente, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center and Swedish Cancer Institute. Patty also offers special thanks and praise to St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church of Seattle.

A memorial service will be held on March 16, 2025, at 2:00 PM at St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church (4805 NE 45th St., Seattle, WA 98105), with a Celebration of Life reception to follow in the Great Hall of the church.

Patty has requested that donations be made in Patty’s honor to Immanuel Community Services (https://www.icsseattle.org/) and St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church (https://ststephens-seattle.org/).

Patty’s legacy of love, laughter, and connection will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.