Effie Lou Padgett Dent of Mobile, Alabama died at her residence over Father’s Day weekend, June 19, 2016. She was 85 years old. Born in Conecuh County, Alabama, Mrs. Dent has resided in Mobile since her marriage to the love of her life, Nathaniel, enjoying a life full of family, social, business and cultural pursuits. Vacationing at their house in Gulf Shores with their daughter, Renée, was always spent enjoying the beach, art, reading and time with family. Building their beach house in Gulf Shores with her husband had been a challenge she relished. Entertaining friends, boating and fishing occupied her when there. Since a young girl she took pleasure in all the textile arts from embroidery, tatting and knitting to crewel, sewing, wet felting, crochet and more. Her talents in this and attention to detail knew no end. An avid reader, religious woman, devoted mother and wife, history buff and antique and china collector, she enjoyed life to its fullest. She was also fond of music, dance and the arts throughout her life and even learned to play piano and guitar as a child. Finishing school early, Mrs. Dent was able to become a successful business woman as her favorite aunts inspired her as examples of educational and business acumen long before it was common to do so for women. For years she was a bank officer over the loan department and enjoyed her work immensely speaking of it fondly. She was a strong woman in the best possible way doing so with great aplomb and gracious Southern charm. She was steadfast and true and the rock of her family as well as the delight of her friends with her gentle ways and caring attitude and unwavering support. This will be missed by many. She was interested in many charitable organizations with her favorites being those related to the heart and cancer that had already touched her family. She was preceded in death by an infant older sister; her father, Claude Padgett; mother Sybil Siffie Norris; grandparents; aunts and uncles; and her adoring husband of 46 years, Nathaniel B. Dent. She is survived by her daughter Renee Dent Blankenship and her son-in-law Patrick J. Blankenship who she welcomed as a blessing to the family. Special thanks to those who have shared words of wisdom, friendship and prayerful support during this time. Visitation will be held on Thursday, June 23 from 12:00-1:00p.m. with funeral services directly after in the Chapel at 1:00 p.m. Interment will be at Mobile Memorial Gardens on Three Notch Road at Hillcrest. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American Cancer Society or the American Heart Association as a way to honor Mrs. Dent and her devotion to her family and her commitment to cures for cancer and heart disease.
SHARE OBITUARY
v.1.8.18