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Vista Today
By the People, for the People
Patricia 'PJ' Metts, 74, Remembered as Devoted Family Member
The longtime AT&T employee and active church member passed away on April 11, 2026.
Apr. 15, 2026 at 8:14pm
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The vibrant, joyful spirit that PJ Metts brought to her family and community will be deeply missed.Vista TodayPatricia 'PJ' Metts, a 74-year-old resident of Benton, Kentucky, passed away on April 11, 2026. PJ was known for her lifelong dedication to her family, church, and career at AT&T, where she worked for nearly 35 years before retiring. She was an active member of Benton First Baptist Church and enjoyed traveling, spending time with her grandchildren, and staying connected with her close-knit group of friends.
Why it matters
PJ's passing marks the end of an era for a beloved community member who embodied the values of faith, family, and friendship that are so important in small-town Kentucky. Her long career and active lifestyle in retirement serve as an inspiration for others looking to find fulfillment through service, relationships, and embracing life's simple pleasures.
The details
PJ began her career with South Central Bell, which later became BellSouth and then AT&T, where she worked for nearly 35 years before retiring. She was an active member of Benton First Baptist Church and enjoyed traveling, salmon fishing in Michigan, waterskiing, and spending time at Kentucky Lake. PJ was especially devoted to her role as a 'professional grandma,' supporting her grandchildren in their various activities and making sure to carve out quality time with them.
- PJ passed away on Saturday, April 11, 2026.
- She was born on August 14, 1951 in Hopkinsville, Kentucky.
- PJ graduated from Christian County High School in 1969.
- Visitation will be held from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM on Wednesday, April 15, 2026.
- Funeral services will be held at 11:00 AM on Thursday, April 16, 2026.
The players
Patricia 'PJ' Metts
A 74-year-old resident of Benton, Kentucky who was known for her lifelong dedication to her family, church, and career at AT&T, where she worked for nearly 35 years before retiring.
Allen Gildersleeve
PJ's husband.
Laura Wilkins
One of PJ's two daughters, who lives in Kevil, Kentucky.
Lisa Balton
One of PJ's two daughters, who lives in Memphis, Tennessee.
Michael Metts
One of PJ's two sons, who lives in Vista, California.
What’s next
Visitation and funeral services will be held in the coming days to celebrate PJ's life and legacy.
The takeaway
PJ's passing marks the end of an era for a beloved community member who embodied the values of faith, family, and friendship that are so important in small-town Kentucky. Her long career, active lifestyle, and devotion to her grandchildren serve as an inspiration for others looking to find fulfillment through service, relationships, and embracing life's simple pleasures.
