Gregory Funeral Service | Gastonia, NC

Obituary For Pattsy Jackson

Pattsy Renee Jackson departed this life Thursday, August 27, 2020.  Pattsy was born September 15 in Washington, DC. 

She attended Immaculate Conception High School and received her Bachelor of Science Degree from the University of California of Pennsylvania. Pattsy obtained her master’s degree in Agricultural Science from the University of Alabama in Huntsville. Pattsy was employed with the US Department of Agricultural for 35 years. She began her career with USDA first as a research scientist in Maryland and later relocated to Gastonia, North Carolina as a botanist with the USDA Seed Regulatory and Testing Branch. During her 35 years with the USDA, Pattsy received numerous awards and was featured in local newspapers.

Pattsy was diagnosed with kidney disease at the young age of 10. In 1996, Pattsy received a kidney transplant and later that year she participated in her first transplant games with the National Kidney Foundation (team Nation Capitol). She was passionately involved with the National Kidney Foundation and the Transplant Games. She traveled the country for the Transplant Games and won many medals in long jump, shot put, badminton as well as other track and field events. Despite the numerous ‘setbacks' that life dealt her, Pattsy always was positive and proactive in her health.  She taught spinning classes, was involved in boot camps and always looked forward to 3K and 5K mile walkun events.

Pattsy was an avid collector of Disney memorabilia. Her infectious smile and positivity about everything radiated to everyone she met. She taught us many lessons about gratitude and being thankful for what you have.  Pattsy’s strong faith, positivity, community involvement and surrounding herself with a positive support system helped her overcome many challenges.

She is preceded in death by her parents: Samuel Jackson and Prodence Macon Jackson and her sister: Pamela Denise Jackson.

Pattsy is survived by her sister: Sondra Jackson Nichols; nephews: Cameron Nichols, Tyree Nichols, and brother-in-law: Tyrone Nichols. She is also survived by many relatives, friends and co-workers. Pattsy will be greatly missed.

Walk thru viewing will be held at the funeral home on Thursday; September 3, 2020 from 6 until 8.

Mass service will be Friday; September 4, 2020; 11:00 a.m. at Queens of the Apostle Roman Catholic Church-503 N. Main Street, Belmont

Masks are required at all services.

Service will be live on Gregory Funeral Service Facebook page and Queen of the Apostles Roman Catholic Church website at 12 noon.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to National Kidney Foundation in the name of Pattsy Jackson.

Guest Book

I can't believe this.. Pattsy and I were dear friends at ARS in Beltsville for many years which continued after her office moved to Gastonia. Pattsy was always the light in the room, so proactive about everything.... I am so sad... this morning just learning of her passing. Fly with the angels my friend... - tina

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OMG. I was just thinking about Pattsy and was going to reach out to her. I am crushed. I met Pattsy when we were 13. Pattsy was such a sweet, gentle person. She loved to laugh. I am sure that she is resting in peace. Farewell Dear Friend.

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With love, Quentin McGill

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I was introduced to Pattsy at the Y years ago. I had just joined and was looking for a class to take, and our friend Greg told me about her Wednesday spin class. That chance encounter led to a great friendship that took us to many runs and walks from Gastonia to Myrtle Beach and between. We shared many laughs, and I don't think I've ever seen such enthusiasm for Mickey and Minney Mouse! In spite of her health, Pattsy always had the most uplifting attitude and would always offer the shirt off her back to anyone. When she couldn't run, she would brave the hot...and cold...and...rain...and snow and cheer you to the finish line! She was the biggest cheerleader and was full of joy. She was truly an angel on earth, and I'm sure she is an angel who is now running marathons and climbing Heaven's mountains! I will never forget Pattsy and am thankful our paths crossed, for I am truly a better person for having known her. Sending my love and deepest condolences to the family.

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Pattsy was a wonderful woman. An inspiration to all humans. I loved her dearly and was blessed to be her friend. I miss her so much. She was a loving and supportive friend. She was fun, sweet and so kind. She loved the Lord! She was a fierce athlete, running marathons, beasting it in boot camp and getting her sweat on in Camojam. I will never see mouse ears without thinking about her. She loved her family and her friends wholeheartedly. God, thank you for sharing that Angel with us! Sincerely, Jena Carlisle

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From our home in Maryland to all of Pattsy's family and friends, we are united in this loss. She was a light in this world too soon distinguished. She is loved and will be missed by all! Darlene, Pete, Daniel & Bethany

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With Deepest Sympathy, Sherhonda Adams Head

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Sherhonda Adams Head

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I remember our days at Alabama A&M and how we hung out on campus. You tried to get me to taste those cross-bred plants you were growing...I refused. I even moved into your dorm room for a while. After college I moved from NY to Maryland and was driving down I495 and passed you...I slowed down and started blowing my horn and we jumped out of the car on the highway and just started jumping and hugging. Then we found out that I lived behind you. I could walk out on my desk and see your apartment. Pattsy...I remember when you got that call for your new kidney in Maryland...We were flying down the highway, to meet Sondra at the hospital. You put on sweat pants and broke the the string, so you were running through the hospital trying to keep your sweat pants from falling down. We were excited and nervous all at the same time. My dear friend you will be truly missed. Deepest Sympathy to the Jackson and Nichols Families.

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Our staff will continue to keep your family in our prayers. We thank you for allowing us to serve your family.

- Gregory Funeral Service | Gastonia, NC