Patton Martin Devitt

Patton Martin Devitt peacefully passed away in her home on November 25, 2025. She was confident she was going to meet Jesus Christ, who would escort her to her assigned chair for a robust game of cards, and she in turn promised not to cheat. She was 94.

Born in Colbert County, Alabama to Louis Martin and Helen Hendricks Martin on July 4, 1931. Patt grew up believing the entire country celebrated her birthday each year. Her childhood, though it began during the Depression and encompassed WWII, was filled with loving family members including her sisters Aline Mullen and Edith (Don) Ruggles. They all enjoyed a magical life of extended family with many cousins providing ready playmates, riding horses, waterskiing, and camping, so celebrations continued throughout the year. She attended the University of Alabama earning both bachelor and masters degrees. Tuscaloosa became her home for the majority of her life, though she did enjoy time in Atlanta, Georgia.

Throughout her years, Patt fostered a love of helping others in need, a love of animals, a love of God and a love of family. These values were passed along and showed up in her own children years later as son Louis (Magalie) Montgomery became an engineer and lawyer, daughter Caroline (E.T) Montgomery Brown became a veterinarian, daughter Helen (Dan) Montgomery DeBevoise became an ordained minister, and daughter Fleta (Bill) Montgomery Edwards, assisting in family business. Patt was “very pleased” with each of their pursuits and accomplishments, and equally proud to claim her 11 grandchildren and 10.5 great grandchildren.

Patt’s greatest enjoyment was to enter a room and see how she could help make it better. She was quick to be involved in civic groups such as the Junior League of Tuscaloosa and Atlanta, and she had a special talent for encouraging people to find their own contributions for the greater good. Her skills led her to formally organize groups for social advancement such as the Tuscaloosa Voluntary Action Center, and the Spouse Abuse Network of Atlanta. Most importantly, First Presbyterian Church in downtown Tuscaloosa remained a constant source of community, encouragement and support during the six decades she was a member. Whether being a class teacher or member, serving as Elder, participating in Women’s Circle or sitting on various committees, Patt continually expressed gratitude and appreciation for the fellowship of the saints at this church she loved.

Her gratitude continued as she found herself in the position of being served rather than serving. The residents of Capstone Village in Tuscaloosa welcomed her with open arms and encouraged her desire to continue making the world a better place. Their help allowed her to focus on her love of writing, and at age 85, she published her first solo book, “Spiritual Food for Senior Saints” and their support continued as a bible study was organized to discuss her work.

Many words have been shared about the gracious way she faced adversity and daily life as she moved toward her later years. Each day she woke up, she was at first surprised, and then curious as to what the Lord had in store for her. She rose to find the reason, and most days, she was able to say it was well with her soul.

Her family expresses deep appreciation and gratitude for the care and support she received at Capstone Hallmark Manor, as well as to Jeanette Brown-Hinton with A Touch of Love. Their professional, kind attention enabled her to live her best life and gave peace of mind, mentally and physically, that helped her pass into that good night with a calm spirit and energy she otherwise would not have had.

There will be two memorial services to remember and honor Patt’s life: A celebration service will be held in the lobby of Capstone Village on Tuesday December 16, 2025 at 3:00. A Celebration of Life service will be held at First Presbyterian Church on Wednesday, December 17, 2025 at 11:30 am.