Patricia Ann Newland-Jefferson

Patricia Ann Newland-Jefferson affectionately known as “Pat-Pat,” beloved wife, matriarch, and guardian of generations, passed away peacefully at the age of 93 years old, surrounded by family on April 7, 2024. She was a cherished member of her Middletown and Faith United Church community and a beacon of love and wisdom. Born on April 29, 1930, she was the daughter of Walter (Anniston, Alabama) and Mertha (Abbeville, South Carolina) Kirksey. She was the eldest of four children with whom she was very close: Paul and Walter (deceased), sister, Martha Nicholson and brother-in-law, Wilton (Nick) Nicholson. 

Patricia grew up in a tight-knit, ethnically diverse neighborhood. She attended Middletown High School where she was a soprano in the Glee Club. In high school she met football star Joseph Henry Newland and quickly fell in love. Joe and Patrica graduated on June 3, 1948 and married in August 1948. From this marriage they had 4 children: Kirklan Timothy Newland (Bonnie), Delphia Jovonne Banks (Robert), Marvin Anthony Newland (Collis), and Mertha Patrice Bailey (Michael). At the age of 27 Patricia was widowed yet, she was steadfast to remain close to her young children in order to raise them. 

In 1966, Patricia married Percy W. Jefferson and her youngest son, Waymon Scott Jefferson (Carey) was born in 1968. Patricia’s home was “her content,” where she often was visited by lifelong friends Virigina Looney, Louise Williams, Geneva Nicholson, Christine Hamilton, May Young, and cousin, Ruthie Carter. Her house had an open door to all, especially her grandchildren with whom she had a special bond with each of them. As her children grew older, Patricia was employed by Butler County Head Start, Sears & Roebuck catalog department, and went on to open her own in-home childcare. 

Patricia came to love the Lord at the age of 10 and served as a deaconess along with her husband Percy at both New Era Baptist and Faith United Churches. She loved to take Sunday drives and sit on her porch with family, especially her sister Martha. Patricia enjoyed cooking and loved music, books, and poetry. In addition, she was an avid watcher of the Kentucky Derby and the Academy Awards. Christmas was her favorite holiday, and she spent much time reading her Bible, especially the Psalms. Known for her generosity, kindness, and compassion, she was a source of guidance and inspiration to countless individuals, offering wisdom and support when needed, giving the guides that “whatever is done in the dark will always come to light.” Her legacy of love and service will continue to live on in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing her. 

Patricia Ann Newland-Jefferson is survived by her five loving children, her sister Martha, brother in love Nick, seventy grandchildren and great-grandchildren, and a host of relatives and friends who will deeply miss her presence in their lives.  She was preceded in death by seven grandchildren.

Although she has left this world, her spirit will forever remain a guiding light, illuminating the path for future generations. Throughout her remarkable 93 years, she touched the hearts of all who knew her with her warmth, grace, beauty, and unwavering faith. She left us with these words: “I am so happy that God has given me the time on this earth to see my kids and to see their children and grandchildren. It is a blessing. God and your family are the most important things. Love each other and keep going.” And so we will.
 

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