AIKEN, SC— Patricia A. Dirks, age 71, entered into rest peacefully on Sunday, January 14, 2018 at her residence. Mrs. Dirks was born October 9, 1946 in West Palm Beach, Florida to the late Hershel and Margaret Allen. She worked as assistant to Speaker of the House Jim Wright, who was number three in line for the White House, for twenty two years and retired as a legal assistant in 2013. She and her husband had made Aiken, SC their home since September of 2013, having previously lived in Martinsburg, WV. Mrs. Dirks touched a lot of people throughout her life and career. In addition to her parents, Mrs. Dirks was preceded in death by her brother, Walter Allen. She leaves to cherish her memories, her beloved husband of thirty one years, William "Bill" Dirks; three beautiful children, Robert B. Perry (Brigitte), Charlotte, NC, Christopher S. Perry (Carla), Atlanta, GA; and Jennifer L. Luke (Andrew), Dumfries, VA; and five wonderful grandchildren. Friends may call this Thursday afternoon from 2:00 until 4:00 PM at George Funeral Home, 211 Park Ave., SW, Aiken, SC 29801.