Patricia Murphy “Patt” Derian was born on August 12, 1929, and died on May 20, 2016.

She was a United States civil rights and human rights activist.

Patricia served as Assistant Secretary of State for Human Rights and Humanitarian Affairs from 1977 to 1981.

Derian attended the University of Virginia School of Nursing, graduating in 1952.

She was married Paul Derian following graduation and worked as a nurse.

Patricia M. Derian was a supporter of the African-American Civil Rights Movement.

She married Hodding Carter III, in 1978 who was then Assistant Secretary of State for Public Affairs.

She died in Chapel Hill, North Carolina, after suffering Alzheimer’s disease.

Patricia M. Derian passed away at 86 yrs old.