Fannie Patricia Deakin

Fannie Patricia Deakin, known to most as Patricia and affectionately called "Tricia" by some family and friends, passed away peacefully on June 6, 2026, at the age of 84 in Jacksonville, Florida, surrounded by the love of her family.

Born on February 5, 1942, in Vonore, Tennessee, to Walter D. Henderson and Mary Etta Holloway Henderson, Patricia was a woman of deep faith, unwavering strength, and boundless love for her family. She was married to the love of her life, Noel Ray Deakins, for 62 wonderful years. Together they built a family rooted in love, faith, and cherished traditions.

Patricia graduated from Vonore High School and devoted her life to caring for those she loved. She fiercely loved her family and always wanted the very best for her children, guiding them with a gentle and loving hand. Her greatest joy came from spending time with family, especially during the holidays. She worked tirelessly to make every celebration special, filling her home with beautiful decorations, laughter, and the sweet aroma of her famous homemade chocolate fudge. Family members knew she often kept a secret stash tucked away to ensure there was always some left to share. Her fudge became a cherished tradition that family and friends looked forward to each year, and it was just one of the many ways she showed her love to those around her.

A woman of steadfast faith, Patricia set aside time each day to study God's Word. Even during life's most difficult seasons, her unshakable trust in God's plan remained her anchor. Her faith provided strength not only for herself but also for those around her, serving as a shining example of grace, perseverance, and hope. She held tightly to her faith through both joyful and challenging times, always believing in God's purpose and promises.

Patricia enjoyed crafting, decorating for every season, creating beautiful floral arrangements, and tending to her flower beds in her younger years. She took pride in making her home welcoming and festive throughout the year. She also enjoyed watching game shows, especially Wheel of Fortune, and keeping up with her favorite daytime soap operas. Her creativity, warmth, and attention to detail made every holiday and family gathering feel extra special.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 62 years, Noel Ray Deakins, and her parents, Mary Etta Holloway Henderson and Walter D. Henderson.

Patricia is survived by her loving children, Melissa Deakin and Michael Deakin (Michelle); her cherished granddaughter, Kelli Rice (Mike); her beloved great-grandchildren, Natalie and Cameron Rice; her brother, Wayne "Pug" Henderson; and many extended family members and dear friends who will forever cherish her memories.

"Even in times of hardship, her unshakable trust in God's plan remained her anchor."

Her family finds comfort in knowing she is now reunited with Noel and resting in the presence of her Lord and Savior.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to NAVF (see link below) in Patricia's memory.

https://www.navf.org/DONATE/