About Patsy

Patsy Keever for NC House – District 115

Patsy Keever never stops thinking, working or giving. Her thoughts and actions most often focus on families and children, our community as a whole and our shared future. In ways great and small, the people of Buncombe County have enjoyed the benefits of Patsy’s dedication and accomplishments for more than 35 years.

Born and raised in Charlotte, Patsy graduated from Duke University before moving here to Buncombe County. She has been a consistently positive force in our community for nearly 40 years now.

Patsy taught in our public schools for 25 years while raising a family that now includes grandchildren. She was elected to three terms on the Buncombe County Commission, serving for 12 years.

After her third term on the county commission and the death of her husband John, she decided to run for the US Congress against Charles Taylor. Her campaign inspired political activism of a new kind in the region. People began to believe that change was possible.

Since that Congressional race Patsy has married Jim Aycock, former publisher of the Black Mountain News. She has also participated in a triathlon, enjoyed her three grandchildren and two step grandchildren, planted a vegetable garden, and chaired the 2009 annual Asheville Buncombe CROP Walk.

Patsy is a devoted member of her church and is grateful both for the teachings that inspire her to serve the least among us, and for the warmth and support of her church community.

Patsy’s been an engaged member of our community through voluntary service that has crisscrossed our county geographically as well as across boundaries of class and race.

She has served on numerous community boards and task forces addressing critical issues that affect our daily lives. Patsy has committed personal and professional time and energy to exploring racism and racial healing through the Building Bridges program and through educational task forces.

Patsy’s campaign slogan is “putting people first” because she knows that we all need help – and sometimes that help and protection must come from the government. If we expect everyone to contribute to society, we need to provide resources to help people when times are tough.