Patrick Arlen Railsback

Patrick Arlen Railsback, who was a dearly loved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away on February 11, 2025, at the age of 60.

Born on January 5, 1965, to Roy and Nelda Railsback, Patrick grew up in Idalou, Texas, where he graduated from Idalou High School in 1983. He went on to further his education at Texas Tech University and the Texas Heart Institute, pursuing a career in cardiac perfusion.

Patrick married Tonya Sherrod, the love of his life, in 1987 in their hometown of Idalou. Together, they built a life full of love, family, and laughter.

Patrick dedicated 32 years to the field of cardiovascular surgery as a Certified Clinical Perfusionist (CCP). He served as Chief of Perfusion at Hendrick Medical Center in Abilene for 26 years before transitioning to University Medical Center in Lubbock, where he took on the same role in recent years. His expertise, dedication, and leadership left a lasting impact on his coworkers and countless patients he cared for throughout his career.

Outside of work, Patrick loved being “Pops” to his grandkids, soaking up every moment with them. Patrick found joy in fishing for trout in the New Mexico mountains, immersing himself in history books, working in his yard and garden to create a truly beautiful space, and spending time with family and friends on hunting trips. In whatever he was doing, Patrick never took time with his family for granted. 

Patrick is survived by his devoted wife of 37 years, Tonya Railsback; his mother, Nelda Railsback, and his three children: Elizabeth Nugent and her husband, Atley, of Lubbock, Garrison Railsback and his wife, Ashlyn, of Graham, and Jackson Railsback and his girlfriend, Cleo Blossom, of Lubbock. He was a proud and loving grandfather to four grandchildren: Emmitt and Madilyn Railsback, Brooks and Aubrey Nugent and a grandson on the way. He is also survived by his brother, Wade Railsback, and his wife, Tori, of Granbury. Patrick was preceded in death by his father, Roy Railsback, and his grandson, Liam Railsback.

Patrick instilled and modeled lessons of hard work, perseverance, and strength that will live on through his family, friends, and the many lives he touched. His unwavering devotion to his family left a lasting impact, and though he will be deeply missed, his memory will continue to inspire those who knew him.

Celebration of Life Memorial Services will be held at 10:30 AM on Saturday, February 15, 2025, at the Venue on Broadway, 2202 Broadway, next to Combest Family Funeral Homes and Crematory. Following the memorial service, the family will greet and visit with friends from 11 AM to 2 PM. Memorial services and cremation arrangements for Patrick are under the personal care and direction of Combest Family Funeral Homes and Crematory.