Patricia "Patty" Jo Porter

Patricia “Patty” Jo Porter, age 63, of Hillsboro, ND, passed away peacefully on Sunday, December 7, 2025, at Sanford Hospice House in Fargo, ND, surrounded by her children.

Born in Fargo on March 20, 1962, Patty was the daughter of Wayne Johnson Jr. and Diana (Nelson) Punton. She graduated from Hillsboro High School in 1980 before pursuing her passion for nursing. Patty earned her associate degree in nursing from St. Luke’s School of Nursing and later completed her Bachelor of Science in Nursing at Moorhead State University.

Throughout her career, Patty served in many roles—pediatrics, oncology, home health, school nursing, emergency care, and medical-surgical units. Her proudest accomplishment was serving as Director of Nursing in Long Term Care, where her compassion and dedication touched countless lives. Patty was a selfless caregiver who found deep fulfillment in helping others.

Beyond her profession, Patty lived life with joy and creativity. She loved gardening, canning, crafting, reading, shopping, and spending time at the lake. She loved decorating for every holiday and hosting celebrations, with Christmas being her most cherished season. Her home was decorated with multiple Christmas trees, festive dishware, and gifts carefully chosen for each of her children. Patty’s kitchen was a special place for her, where she cooked and baked abundantly, ensuring guests left with full hearts and leftovers in hand.

Patty had a gift for connecting with people. She made friends easily, spoke her mind with honesty, and found happiness in life’s simple pleasures. Family was her greatest joy. She adored her children and was especially proud of her grandsons, Carson and Camden, whom she loved to read to, spoil with toys, and treat with their favorite snacks—Cheeto puffs and blueberries.

Patty is survived by her children: Brittany (Cody) Hunt of Munich, ND; Emily Hanson of Hillsboro, ND; Brady Hanson of Fargo, ND; Calle Porter of Grand Forks, ND; and Molly Porter of Fargo, ND; as well as her grandsons Carson and Camden Hunt. She is also survived by her mother, Diana (Chuck) Punton, and sisters Nancy Price and Becki Hennings.

She was preceded in death by her father, Wayne Johnson Jr., and her grandparents.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Friday, December 12, 2025, at 5:00 p.m. at Our Savior’s Lutheran Church in Hillsboro, ND, with visitation beginning at 4:00 p.m.

Patty’s children extend heartfelt gratitude to all who supported her throughout her life.