Patricia "Patty" Eileen Riley

Patricia Eileen Riley, a distinguished and pioneering attorney, passed away on April 24, 2026, in Topeka, Kansas. Born on June 27, 1949, in Corpus Christi, Texas, Patty's life was marked by an unwavering commitment to justice, education, and leadership within the legal profession and her community.

Patty’s academic journey began in Corpus Christi, Texas, where she attended high school before pursuing higher education at Southern Methodist University. Demonstrating a profound dedication to the advancement of knowledge, she earned a Master's Degree in Special Education from the University of Kansas. In 1976, Patty achieved her Juris Doctorate from Washburn School of Law, setting the stage for a remarkable career that would inspire generations.

Shortly after graduating from Washburn School of Law, she met the love of her life, Wesley Weathers. They were married on March 21, 1982 in Topeka, KS. They were happily married and were law partners for over 40 years. To their union in marriage, they welcomed one daughter, Catherine, who blended well with them.

Patty was among the first women to establish herself as a partner in well recognized law firm in Topeka, Kansas, serving at Crane, Martin, Claussen, Hamilton & Barry. She later formed a law firm with Wes Weathers. Her practice was renowned for civil litigation, mediation, and employment law. Patty was an AV-rated attorney, receiving the highest rating for legal ability and ethics, and was consistently recognized in the Best Lawyers in America. Her expertise and dedication to her craft earned her the distinguished title of “Lawyer of the Year” in Labor & Employment Law for six straight years.

Throughout her career, Patty was deeply involved in professional legal organizations. She was elected by her peers to multiple Kansas Supreme Court committees and disciplinary boards and was a member of the U.S. Magistrate Judge selection committee. Demonstrating exceptional leadership, she chaired the Topeka Bar Association’s Committee on Ethics and spearheaded initiatives aimed at public education on the merit selection of judges. Her work extended beyond the courtroom, as she remained dedicated to improving access to justice and advancing legal reform in Kansas.

Patty’s commitment to service was evident in her role on the Kansas Legal Services board and her active participation in Washburn Law School and various community initiatives. She was a passionate advocate for education and mentorship, embodying the qualities of integrity, leadership, and advocacy that earned her the respect and admiration of colleagues and friends alike. As a trailblazer for women in law, Patty paved the way for future generations of female attorneys, leaving an indelible mark on the profession.

She also served as the President of the Washburn Women's Alliance and was a member of the Washburn Alumni Association. Patty was also a member of the Kansas Action for Children, Board of Trustees for the Topeka Rescue Mission, President of the Topeka Junior League and PTO President at Gage Elementary. She was an advocate for CASA.

She is survived by her beloved husband, Wes Weathers; her daughter, Catherine (Chase) Kimsey; her step-daughter, Marcie Klevens; grandchildren Sloane Kimsey, Jett Kimsey, and step-grandson Lucas Stoltman. Patty is also remembered with love by her sisters, Susan (Pat) Martin and Kathleen (Bill) Sharman, along with her cherished nieces and nephews: Caroline (Dale) Ho, Riley (Lee-Taylor) Sharman, James Martin, and Dee Martin. She was preceded in death by her father, Dr. James Riley and mother, Lorraine (Nethery) Riley.

Patricia Eileen Riley’s legacy is characterized by her tireless devotion to justice and her profound impact on the legal community and those she served. Her memory will continue to inspire all who knew her, as a model of excellence, compassion, and unwavering commitment to the principles she held dear.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made in her honor to the Alzheimer's Association, 8001 Conser, Suite 240, Overland Park, KS 66204.

To leave a message for her family online, please visit the guestbook below