Patricia Baily Dennis

Patricia Baily Dennis, 89, of Oklahoma City, passed away on October 26, 2026. Her life was distinguished by achievement in the legal profession, a remarkable devotion to music, and the friendships she cultivated throughout her years.

Born in Oklahoma City on September 23, 1937, Patricia was the daughter of Louis Baily and Wanda Lorraine Baily. Her love of singing began at the age of five, when she performed as a member of a barbershop quartet. Music would remain on of the great joys of her life.

An accomplished vocalist and one of the early members of Canterbury Voices, Patricia sang with the organization for an extraordinary 56 seasons. Her longstanding participation reflected not only on her commitment to choral music, but also the joy she found in performing alongside others. For Patricia, music was much more than a pastime; it was an essential part of who she was.

Patricia also built a distinguished career in law. She began her undergraduate studies at the University of Oklahoma, but interrupted her education during her junior year to begin raising a family. Ten years later, she returned to her studies and went on to attend Oklahoma City University School of Law, graduating near the top of her class in 1969.

Entering the legal profession at a time when women were often denied the recognition and opportunities, Patricia established herself as a successful attorney. She was an accomplished trailblazer in her field. She concluded her career as Deputy City Attorney for the City of Oklahoma City.

Highly articulate and welcoming to new friends, Patricia valued conversation and companionship. In the last seven or eight years of her life, she regularly gathered with sorority sisters and other close women friends to play bridge, nurturing an extended sisterhood that brought her friendship, laughter, and connection.

Patricia was preceded in death by her husband, Jim Dennis, who passed away in January 2018. She is survived by her sons, David M. Dunlap and Michael S. Dunlap, and her daughter-in-law, Tess M. Dunlap.

She will be remembered for her eloquence, perseverance, achievements in law, openness to friendship, and above all, the music that accompanied her throughout her life.

A Requiem Eucharist honoring the life of Patricia Baily Dennis will be held on Monday, November 2, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. at All Souls’ Episcopal Church, 6400 N. Pennsylvania Avenue, Oklahoma City, OK 73116, with a reception in the Parish Hall to follow.