Lorette Patterson Crawford
WATER VALLEY – Loretta Patterson Crawford embraced life with a fervor that was palpable to all who knew her. Born on January 25th, 1937, in McCaysville, Ga., she lived a life filled with love, laughter, and unwavering dedication to her family. On June 12th, 2024, surrounded by loved ones at Baptist Memorial Hospital in Oxford, Loretta peacefully passed away, leaving behind a legacy of kindness and resilience that will forever resonate in the hearts of those who had the privilege of knowing her.
Raised by her mother, Irene Waters, in the North Georgia mountains, Loretta’s humble beginnings shaped her into a remarkable woman. From her early days working as a waitress to her 40-year career as a dedicated nurse, Loretta touched the lives of many with her caring nature and unwavering strength. Her commitment to her work was evident during her time at Yalobusha County Hospital, where she played an instrumental role in training and supporting countless healthcare professionals.
A member of First Baptist Church of Water Valley, Loretta’s faith and compassion were the cornerstones of her life. She adored her family, cherishing every moment spent with her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Loretta’s culinary talents were renowned, with her cream cheese pound cakes and homemade preserves bringing joy to all who tasted them.
Funeral services will be held at Seven Oaks Funeral Home on June 22 at noon, preceded by a visitation at 10 a.m. Loretta will be laid to rest at the family plot in Pinecrest Cemetery, marking the final chapter in a life well-lived and a soul deeply loved.
Loretta’s memory will forever be cherished by her surviving family members including her daughter, Pam Dixe; two sons Perry (Marilyn) Crawford and Brett (Kirstie) Crawford; her brother, Herman (Ducie) Waters; her grandchildren, Preston (Jasmin) Duke, Karla Williams, Whitney Dixe, Jeremy Crawford and Elizabeth Crawford and Caleb (Shelby) Crawford; her great grandchildren, Courtney and John Luke Bardo; and extended family and friends.
In addition to her parents, Loretta is preceded in death by her husband, Earl Max (Jack) Crawford; her daughter, Diane Duke; and her brothers Harold and Jimmy Hoyt Waters.
James Leroy Edwards, Sr.
COFFEEVILLE – Rev. James Leroy Edwards, Sr., 83, of Coffeeville, passed away Saturday, June 15, 2024. James was born on June 18, 1940 in Coffeeville to Leroy and Lucile Haynes Edwards. He was a 1958 graduate of Coffeeville High School and a proud member of the 1957 state championship basketball team.
James continued his education, earning a bachelor’s degree in Education from Mississippi State University where he excelled in basketball. His passion for teaching and coaching led him to several schools before he answered the Lord’s call to the gospel ministry. James enrolled at New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary, beginning a lifetime of spreading the gospel of Jesus Christ. In 1980, James and his young family returned to Coffeeville, where he served as a bi-vocational minister in several churches in the area. His farming endeavors and the operation of Edwards & Sons in Coffeeville that provided agricultural services to area farmers for over 40 years also demonstrated his commitment to his community. James performed countless weddings and funerals through the years and held true to his commitment to living for the Lord all his days. “Well done, good and faithful servant.”
Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. Wednesday, June 19, at First Baptist Church – Coffeeville with Rev. Craig Baker and Rev. Truman Scarborough officiating. Interment will follow in the Broadstreet Cemetery near Coffeeville. The family received friends Tuesday evening. Visitation is also scheduled one hour prior to the service Wednesday at First Baptist Church – Coffeeville.
Pallbearers will be Michael Davis, Steve Ellis, Gaylon Gray, David McCluney, Nikoma Myhand, Rex Myhand, Don Sheffield, Mark Shows, Ronnie Tritt and Scott Waldo. Russell Fisk, Jim Gholson, Billy Gordon, Wayne Harris, Chick Miller, Thomas Simmons, Larry Tritt and Wayne Turner will serve as honorary pallbearers. Arrangements have been entrusted to McKibben and Guinn Funeral Service in Grenada
Rev. Edwards is survived by his loving wife, Shirley Gray Edwards, who stood by his side throughout his life’s journey. He is also survived by his two sons, Jim (Gail) Edwards and Timothy (April) Edwards, all of Coffeeville, who carry on his legacy; his sister, Vera Shows of Louisville; and his grandson, Andrew Edwards.
He is preceded in death by his parents and a sister, Vernell Gray. Memorials may be directed to First Baptist Church – Coffeeville.
Mavis Sawyer Patterson
COFFEEVILLE – Mavis Sawyer Patterson, 80, of Coffeeville, passed away Monday, June 10, 2024 at Baptist Memorial Hospital – North Mississippi in Oxford. She was born April 22, 1944 in Dothan, Ala. to Murray and Johnnie Mae Strickland Sawyer.
Mavis worked at Kellwood in Coffeeville for a number of years. Prior to that, she enjoyed working in the hospitality industry at Island One in Orlando, Fla. A devoted homemaker, she especially enjoyed tending to her flowers and gardening. Mavis never turned down the opportunity to go to a yard sale or auction, and she was always looking for a good deal. She was a member of Elam Baptist Church near Coffeeville.
Services were held at Sunday, June 16 at Elam Baptist Church with Rev. Brennan Allen and Rev. David Poynor officiating. Interment followed in the church cemetery with Rickey Lyle Carvan, Dustin Davis, Elijah Dempsey, Cody Ford, Marshall Gardner, Ricky Melton, Jr. and Jason Nelson serving as pallbearers. Rickey Lee Carvan, Richard Ford, John Melton and Randy Melton were honorary pallbearers. McKibben and Guinn Funeral Service was in charge.
Survivors include six daughters, Bonnie (John) Nelson, Betty Melton, Bobbie (Randy) Gray, Brenda (Richard) Ford, all of Coffeeville, Bernita (Rickey) Carvan of Oakland and Beverly Campbell of Coffeeville; 23 grandchildren, 60 great-grandchildren and 27 great-great-grandchildren.
She is preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Jon Patterson; one sister; 12 brothers; two grandchildren, Earl Raymond Nelson, III, and Brandy Ford Boyd; four great-grandchildren, Jasmine Dempsey, Jocelyn Carvan, Zach Boyd and Braylin Boyd; and a son-in-law, Raymond Nelson, Jr.
Kenneth Allen Stokes
BATESVILLE – Kenneth Allen Stokes, a respected member of the Batesville community, passed away on June 12, 2024. Born on November 1, 1951, in Grenada, Kenneth’s life was marked by his dedication to serving others and his deep love for nature and fishing.
After graduating high school, Kenneth pursued his passion for ministry by attending Mid America Seminary. For 17 years, he wholeheartedly dedicated himself to pastoring in Clark County, spreading a message of love and compassion. Subsequently, Kenneth embarked on a new journey, mastering the art of driving as a professional truck driver with J.B. Hunt.
In 1998, Kenneth returned to his roots in Arizona, where he transitioned into the field of construction, leaving his mark through his hard work and dedication. He then later moved to Grenada and then to Batesville, enjoying his well-deserved retirement.
Throughout his life, Kenneth found solace in the beauty of nature, finding joy in fishing and exploring the great outdoors.
A celebration of Kenneth’s life will be held at Adonai Church on Wednesday, June 19, with visitation scheduled at noon and the service at 1 p.m. The burial ceremony honoring Kenneth’s memory follow. Seven Oaks Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.
Ken is survived by three daughters, Shannon Rosenman, Stephanie Stockton, and Jennifer Stokes; and his beloved fiancé, Sandra Hipps.
Kenneth was preceded in death by his parents; Sylvester Leroy Stokes and Mary Britt Stokes; as well as one brother and two sisters.
Katie Mae Williamson
WATER VALLEY – Katie Johnsey Williamson passed away on Tuesday, June 11, 2024, embracing a full life. She was born August 17, 1950, in Water Valley.
Katie’s journey began after graduating from Water Valley High as she continued her education at Northwest Community College, earning a degree in cosmetology. Katie then moved to Memphis, where her career thrived at Allenberg Cotton Company. She dedicated 42 years to the company before gracefully retiring in 2015.
After her remarkable career, Katie explored different avenues, returning to Water Valley in 2019 and eventually settling in Desoto County in 2023. Her spirit was evident in her love for travel, swimming, playing the piano, and showcasing her exceptional culinary skills. She was devoted fan of Ole Miss sports.
Katie’s legacy lives on through her sister, Alice Williams; a niece, Paige Williams; a nephew, Lee Williams; a great-niece, Tori Williams (Sean) Bregar; as well as numerous cousins, all whom she cherished dearly.
In celebration of her life, the funeral service was held Tuesday, June 18, with Dr. Randy Bain Officiating. Seven Oaks Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Bill and Pearl Johnsey.
Albert Ray Zabel
WATER VALLEY – Albert Ray Zabel, 87, of Water Valley passed away on June 10, 2024, in Oxford. He was born on the family farm in Texas County, Oklahoma, the first child of Edward Zabel and Lucy Morford Zabel on October 22, 1936. He attended the Adams, Okla. school system and graduated as salutatorian in a class of eight in 1954.
Albert began college at Bethany Penial College, now Southern Nazarene University. After two years he transferred to the University of Oklahoma. He worked his way through college by working at various jobs including sales at Sears and as a janitor at the Oklahoma State Capitol. During his college years, Albert met and married Sallie Newton on December 22, 1956. He graduated with a BS in Business Administration in 1960. He completed the ROTC program and received a commission as a Second Lieutenant. He became a navigator and served 22-and-a half-years in the US Air Force, retiring as a Lt. Col at McChord Air Force Base in 1983.
Albert and Sallie were married at Lakeview Park Church of the Nazarene and were also active in the church throughout their travels. A church was started in their home while stationed in Goose Bay, Labrador. He served as the District Sunday School Superintendent while stationed in Panama. While in Japan he served as building superintendent to oversee the building a parsonage.
After retiring from his service, Albert went to work for the Oklahoma State Auditor’s office in 1983. He moved to Water Valley in September, 2023, to be near his family, Sharon and Monty Nichols.
Visitation was held Thursday, June 13, at Cornerstone Funeral Home in Oklahoma. The funeral service will military honors was held Friday, June 14, at Fort Gibson National Cemetery. A memorial service will be held Saturday, July 13, at 11 a.m. at Edmond First Church of the Nazarene in Edmond, Oklahoma.
