Longtime dispatcher hangs up headset

A mix of current, former, and retired first responders from Keller and our regional partner agencies recently sniffled and smiled their way through a retirement party for Dispatcher Patricia Villalva.

For nearly 27 years, Pat was the calm voice at the end of the line when those in need called 911, first for our Keller residents and visitors and later as part of NETCOM, also serving the partner cities of Colleyville, Southlake and Westlake. She eased fears, guided bystanders through life-saving procedures, and had the backs of our firefighters, police officers, and animal control team through countless calls.

To our extended public safety family, she’s also been a fierce friend, a beloved mother and grandmother figure around the station, and the consummate volunteer, always willing to take on extra assignments and lend a hand to special projects — especially those that served children and families in need. As she heads off into the sunset (and plans her next cruise), Pat said those connections are what she’ll miss most of all.

“The team — the teamwork; that’s what I’ll miss,” she said. “Making a difference in someone’s life.”

Congratulations, Pat. Have a fantastic retirement!