Patricia King is a gifted and resilient Black woman whose life reflects a deep commitment to service, caregiving, and community. Born and raised in Syracuse, New York, she moved to Charlotte, North Carolina in 2004 after caring for her father during the final six years of his life. Patricia is the proud mother of three sons and honors the memory of her beloved daughter.

Her journey in child care began early—first as a babysitter for family and friends, then as a Youth Coordinator at a local recreation center for two summers. After graduating high school in January 1976, Patricia attended trade school and began a professional career in the insurance industry, holding roles in data entry, accounting, and confidential data programming. When her company downsized, she continued to expand her skills, earning credentials as a Certified Medical Assistant (CDA), training as a truck driver, and working in retail, auto parts, and security.

While caring for her father, Patricia also operated her own Family Child Care and Foster Care program. During this time, she enrolled at Onondaga Community College, earning her National CDA Certificate. After relocating to Charlotte, she continued her education at Central Piedmont Community College while working in early childhood programs across the city.

Patricia has served as a Pre‑K and More‑at‑Four teacher and has been a Lead Teacher for multiple age groups, often working from opening to closing to support the centers she served. In 2014, she began the process of opening her own home child care program, “Grandma’s Angels,” fulfilling a lifelong calling to nurture, guide, and uplift young children.

With decades of experience across caregiving, education, and community service, Patricia brings wisdom, compassion, and a powerful sense of purpose to every space she enters. Her life’s work embodies the heart of FCCEF’s mission—supporting families, strengthening communities, and honoring the educators who shape children’s earliest experiences.