Patsy May Newell

Patsy May Newell, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend, went home to be with the Lord on May 2, 2025, at the age of 72. She was surrounded by the love of her family and the lasting impact of a life spent in service, compassion, and unwavering faith.

Patsy is survived by her beloved husband of 57 years, Johnny Newell Sr., and their children: Johnny (Lesia) Newell II, Julie (Bryan) La Fontaine, and Jeremy (Lisa) Newell. She was a cherished grandmother to Johnny Newell III, Blake (Sara) Shortnacy, Kimberly (Linton) Sangster, Karena Newell, Ambre Hentosz, Branson Daniel, Jonah Newell, and Noah Newell. Her legacy continues through her great-grandchildren: Serenity McAlexander, Jace Shortnacy, Lily Newell, Kayden Watson, Finley Sangster, Jayden Newell, Addlee Shortnacy, and Kegan Sangster.

She is also survived by her siblings Ronald (Debbie) Puckett, Alvin “Bucky” Puckett, and David (Brandy) Johnson, as well as numerous nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, and cousins. Patsy was preceded in death by her parents, Lily Johnson and Coleman Puckett, and her sister, Faye Cromer.

Patsy’s life was a testament to her deep Christian faith and her tireless service to others. As a pastor’s wife, she faithfully ministered to her church family at Emmanuel Baptist Church in Stockbridge, GA, alongside her husband. She shared God’s love with everyone she met—friend or stranger—and lived her faith out loud through kindness, encouragement, and prayer.

For over 40 years, Patsy served as a school bus driver, forming lifelong bonds with the children and families she encountered. In her later years, she found special joy working with students with special needs, joining them for lunches, field trips, and celebrating their milestones as if they were her own.

Patsy’s giving spirit never waned. She was actively involved with the Jackson Food Pantry and the local pregnancy resource center, praying with and for others, encouraging pro-life values, and serving anyone in need with compassion and grace.

She was known to travel with her great-grandchildren, always have a sleeve of ritz crackers and Jif peanut butter with her, savor coffee and conversation with anyone willing to share a cup, and offer prayers and love to all.

Patsy May Newell was a radiant example of Christian love in action. She will be deeply missed by all who knew her but leaves behind a lasting legacy of faith, family, and service.

Her greatest desire was for everyone she loved to know the Lord and to join her one day in Heaven.