Thelma Patton

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Thelma "Lavina" Patton, who departed this life on March 4, 2025, at the age of 95. Born on September 23, 1929, in Brownsville, Arkansas, to the late Odis and Thelma (Spriggs) Bittle, Lavina lived a life filled with love, commitment, and a deep faith in God.

Lavina married the love of her life Udell Patton, who preceded her in death in 1986. She graduated from Heber Springs High School in Arkansas in 1948. Lavina resided in Matthews, Indiana, where she worked diligently in the manufacturing industry at Essex Wire, and previously worked in the kitchen at Taylor University. She was a member of First Community Church of Matthews, served as a secretary on the church board, and was a member of the church group, Lady Aides, and on the board at the Matthews Library,

Lavina was a devoted mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and great-great grandmother, forever cherished by her daughters, Darlene Jackson and Diane Sneddon; her sons-in-law, Russell Jackson, and Chris Sneddon; grandchildren, Robert Abernathy, Angela (Greg) Kuzkowski, and Steven (Tammy) Jackson; as well as her beloved great-grandchildren, Abby Hale, Darren (Grace) Jackson, and Summer Jackson, and 3 great-great grandchildren. Lavina is also survived by her brother, Billy Tom Bittle, and sister-in-law, Eva Bittle, who will remember her with love and fondness.

A true matriarch, Lavina found great joy in crocheting, cooking, baking, and nurturing her beautiful garden of flowers. She had a passion for playing games, especially dominos, and cherished moments spent with her family. A devout Christian, Lavina dedicated herself to her faith and participated actively in church activities, where she touched the lives of many.

Thelma was preceded in death by her husband, Udell Patton; parents, Odis and Thelma Bittle; son, James Aaron Patton; and brother, Harold Bittle.

Lavina's life was a testament to her unwavering love for her family and devotion to her community. Her memory will continue to live on in the hearts of those she touched.

Arrangements for Lavina were entrusted to Jones-Smith Chapel of Armes-Hunt Life Celebration Funeral Home and Cremation Services, 259 North Main Street, Upland, Indiana 46989. As we honor her legacy, we invite all who knew and loved Lavina to join us in commemorating a life well-lived, surrounded by the love that she so selflessly shared at the funeral home on Monday, March 10, 2025, for a visitation from 11:00 A.M. to 1:00 P.M., with the funeral service following at 1:00 P.M., being officiated by Pastor Joe Ruberg. Burial will immediately follow at Matthews Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to her beloved church, First Community Church of Matthews, 131 W. 7th Street, Matthews, Indiana, 46957, reflecting Lavina's unwavering faith and commitment to helping others in her community. May her soul rest in peace, and may her spirit continue to inspire us all.

Online memories and condolences can be made at www.armeshuntfuneralhome.com.