Pat Nixon

Pat Nixon (1912-1993), born Thelma Catherine Ryan, was the First Lady of the United States from 1969 to 1974 during her husband Richard Milhous Nixon's presidency. Known for her grace and dedication to public service, she championed causes related to children, veterans, and the elderly. Pat played a key role in her husband's international diplomacy, notably joining him on his groundbreaking trip to China in 1972. After Richard Milhous Nixon's resignation due to the Watergate scandal, Pat largely withdrew from public life, focusing on her family.