Patricia Austin Abel, 90, passed away peacefully at her residence and went to her heavenly home on April 14, 2026. She was born March 28, 1936, in Buckhorn, MS to the late William Buell Austin and the late Audie Garrett Austin. She loved Christ and was a member of Harrisburg Baptist Church. She prayed often and her favorite book was the Bible.
She was a graduate of Pontotoc High School and received a nursing degree from Grenada School of Nursing. She married the love of her life, the late Bob Abel, and they eventually made their home in Tupelo. She was a registered nurse for almost fifty years before retiring and spent most of her professional career caring for newborn babies in the NICU, something she genuinely enjoyed. She was one of the first neonatal nursing specialists in the state.
The addition of a son (Kevin) and a daughter (Beth) to the family was two of the greatest days in her life. She had a special love for all of her family members, especially her grandchildren. She was committed to caring for family members and friends in need. She really enjoyed reading a good novel and “joining” in with the characters, and her favorite pastime was playing the piano. Her special love was felt by all that knew her.
Visitation will be held Saturday, April 18, 2026, from 10:00 am until the Celebration of Life Service at 11:00 am at Browning Funeral Home,141 West Oxford Street, Pontotoc, MS.
Patricia is survived by her children, Kevin Abel (Janet), and Beth Shelton (Kirk); grandchildren, Bryce Abel (Morgan), Abi Parker (Hunter), Jordan Shelton, Graham Shelton, and Grisham Shelton; great grandchild, Saige Abel; brother, Tony Austin (Jo Ellen); and several nieces, nephews, cousins, and their families.
Pallbearers will be Bryce Abel, David Austin, Hunter Parker, Jordan Shelton, Graham Shelton, and Grisham Shelton.
The family wants to thank all the caregivers from A Caring Hand at Home for the wonderful assistance and care provided during the past couple of years.
In lieu of flowers, any memorial contributions may be made to the ALS Association or to your local church.
