Patricia "Pat" "DeeDee" Tacko

Patricia “Pat” Messenger Tacko, affectionately known as Granny by her grandchildren and DeeDee to her close family and friends, passed away peacefully on January 2, 2021 at the age of 74. Born October 19, 1946 in New Orleans, LA, Pat was a lifelong New Orleanian until hurricane Katrina relocated her to Benton, AR. Although Pat grew to love Arkansas and her time in the Natural State, her heart belonged to New Orleans.

Pat was preceded in death by her mother, Dixie McCoy Messenger, father, William “Bill” Robert Messenger, husband, Nicholas “Nick” Joseph Tacko, lll and she is survived by her only sibling, Becky Messenger. Leaving to cherish her memory are her two loving daughters, Lori Tacko Peden, (Mark) and Michelle Tacko Sparling. All who knew Pat, knew that her pride and joy were her 4 grandchildren, Taylor Peden, Karrah Peden Trammell (Will), MaryGrace Peden and Emma Brown.

Pat was a longtime employee of Dillards and was so proud to have recently celebrated 25 years of service. Her Dillards family meant the world to her and provided much love, fun and mischief! Her New Orleans friends were also a source of great love and.long-standing friendships. One of Pat’s favorite past times was stitching and embroidery; so many people were blessed by her gorgeous needlework. Her friends at Accents in Stitches were such a treasure. Additionally, Pat was generous to a fault and gave much more than she ever expected in return.

The family would like to thank the nurses and staff on the 4th floor of the Arkansas Heart Hospital and Arkansas Hospice inpatient floor at CHI St. Vincent Infirmary, who provided such tender support and skilled care during her stay there. We are forever grateful for your compassion and comfort.

A celebration of life service will be held Friday, January 8, 2021 at Smith Funeral Home in Benton, AR, with visitation from 4-5:30 followed by a memorial service from 5:30-6:00. In lieu of flowers please consider donating to The American Diabetes Association.