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Mrs. Patricia Ann Highsmith

07/28/1950 - 08/28/2026

Obituary For Mrs. Patricia Ann Highsmith

“Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me. In my Father's house are many mansions if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you I will come again and receive you unto myself; there-where I am, there ye may be also.” John 14: 1-3

Mrs. Patricia Ann Highsmith was born on July 28, 1950, in Allendale County, South Carolina, to the late Rufus Ferguson and the late Susie Ferguson.


At an early age, Patricia accepted Christ as her personal Savior and joined Nazarene Missionary Baptist Church in Fairfax, South Carolina, where she
faithfully served the Lord until her health began to decline. She was a devoted member of the choir, and she lovingly served in the church kitchen. Her faith and willingness to serve reflected the caring spirit she carried throughout her life.


Patricia received her education through the public schools of Allendale County.


She met and married the love of her life, James Highsmith, and together they shared a life filled with love, family, and cherished memories.


Patricia was a dedicated and hardworking woman. She was employed with Milliken for over 27 years. She later continued her career with Sarah Lee for 7
years and LeCresent for 5 years. Through her years of work, she touched the lives of many with her kindness, strength, and genuine concern for others.

Patricia had a passion for cooking, driving, serving, and helping others. She found joy in doing for those around her and never hesitated to lend a helping hand. She also had a special love for animals, enjoyed online services, and could spend hours
playing Crush, one of her favorite pastimes.


Patricia was a loving wife, devoted mother, cherished grandmother, caring sister, treasured aunt, and faithful friend. Her presence brought warmth and love to the lives of those around her. She will always be remembered for her generous heart, her willingness to serve, her love for family, and the countless memories she created with those she loved.

On Friday, August 28, 2026, Patricia peacefully entered eternal rest in the comfort of her home.


Though her earthly journey has come to an end, the love she shared and the memories she created will live on forever in the hearts of her family and all who
were blessed to know her.

Patricia will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered, and forever treasured in the hearts of her loved ones: Loving Husband: James Highsmith; (2) Daughters:
Cheyenne (Celvin Sr.) Mitchell; Wanda Highsmith; (4) Sons: Darryl Ferguson, Andre (Shonia) Singleton, James (Jamila) Highsmith, Jr., and Jason Highsmith;
(8) Grandchildren: Hakeem Ferguson, Hennessy Ferguson, Dre’sha Singleton, Andre Singleton, Jr., Dante Buckmond, Regina Buckmond, Justine Highsmith and Giselle Highsmith; (2) Great–Grandchildren: Harmony White and Hezekiah
White ; (1) Sister: Joyce Manuel; (1) Loving and Devoted Niece: Tonia Manuel; (1) Nephew: Carlos Manuel; (2) Devoted Great Nieces: Carla Capers and Natasha Manuel; Devoted Cousin: Stedmen Miley; Best friend: Sylvia Murray. A host of loving great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins, and sympathizing friends.

Rest peacefully, Patricia. Your work here is done, but your love and legacy will live on forever.

“A SERVICE ABOVE SELFF”

Please remember to keep the Ferguson and Highsmith families lifted in prayer.

You may email condolences to: mfrileysfuneralhome@yahoo.com

Send flowers to the service of Mrs. Patricia Ann Highsmith


Services

Visitation

Sep
4
M.F. Riley's Funeral Home | Fairfax, SC

1214 S. Hampton Ave.
Fairfax, SC 29827

4:00 PM - 6:00 PM
Get Directions

Interment

Sep
5
Nazarene Baptist Church Cemetery

Charleston Avenue
Fairfax,, South Carolina 29827

Get Directions

Funeral Service

Sep
5
Nazarene Baptist Church

1198 Charleston Avenue
Fairfax,, South Carolina 29827

11:00 AM
Get Directions

Condolences & Tributes

Add A Condolence

Dearest Auntie, Where do I start? There's so much I can say. Our conversations were endless. Thank you for pouring into me. Your wisdom was incredible and I accept every piece of advice you gave me. Aunts are truly second mothers!!!! I miss you so much 😢. We talked about everything everyday. You are now in heaven with your mom and dad, and in the arms of Jesus. Well-done my dear! Take your rest angel please continue to watch over us💔. Sing your heart out up there😢. Loving you always and forever ❤️ Your ONE and only niece, Tonia 🥹

Tonia Manuel

Remembering Mrs. Patricia Ferguson Highsmith

When a family goes through hard times, you quickly learn who has the grit to stand in the gap. We remember and honor Mrs. Patricia Ferguson Highsmith for being that person when our family needed it most.

We first came to know Mrs. Patricia during a moment of sudden loss and uncertain time—when our cousin the late Debbie Tart transitioned. Watching Cousin Debbie's young children Quandrez, and twins Hakeem and Hennessy lost their mother was a weight no child should carry alone. In that time of profound loss, instability and change, Mrs. Patricia opened her heart and her home with unwavering support to raise the twins, her grandchildren, Hakeem and Hennessy along with their dad, her son Darryl. She gave them a home—a firm place to stand, filled with maternal strength, and the kind of tough unconditional love that keeps you grounded. Her selflessness, steady presence and parental instinct turned what could have been a tragic chapter into a story of resilience, and comfort, at a time when they were most vulnerable. She also embraced Cousin Debbie's other sons all the same, treating them as her own flesh and blood, especially Quandrez.

Mrs. Patricia was never one to smooth over her rough edges. She was a pistol—sharp-tongued, fiercely independent, and certainly not always easy. She lived on her own terms and didn't pretend to be anyone other than who she was. Yet beneath that tough exterior was a woman who understood the raw, non-negotiable value of family, as her motherly instinct were pure steel. She didn't offer soft words; she offered shelter, action, a firm foundation, and never looked backed. She was real and unapologetically herself.

Today, we honor the grit, character, and fierce loyalty she showed when it mattered most. Her willingness to step up and carry the heavy burden of raising the next generation will always be remembered and respected by our family.

We take deep comfort in knowing that Cousin Debbie's children were cared for, and we hold significant respect for the shelter and foundation Mrs. Patricia built for them. May she rest easy now, her work on this earth well and truly done.

The Family of the Late Debbie Tart

The Family of the Late Debbie Tart

The Family of the Late Debbie Dart

Remembering Mrs. Patricia Ferguson Highsmith

When a family goes through hard times, you quickly learn who has the grit to stand in the gap. We remember and honor Mrs. Patricia Ferguson Highsmith for being that person when our family needed it most.

We first came to know Mrs. Patricia during a moment of sudden loss and uncertain time—when our cousin the late Debbie Tart transitioned. Watching Cousin Debbie's young children Quandrez, and twins Hakeem and Hennessy lost their mother was a weight no child should carry alone. In that time of profound loss, instability and change, Mrs. Patricia opened her heart and her home with unwavering support to raise the twins, her grandchildren, Hakeem and Hennessy along with their dad, her son Darryl. She gave them a home—a firm place to stand, filled with maternal strength, and the kind of tough unconditional love that keeps you grounded. Her selflessness, steady presence and parental instinct turned what could have been a tragic chapter into a story of resilience, and comfort, at a time when they were most vulnerable. She also embraced Cousin Debbie's other sons all the same, treating them as her own flesh and blood, especially Quandrez.

Mrs. Patricia was never one to smooth over her rough edges. She was a pistol—sharp-tongued, fiercely independent, and certainly not always easy. She lived on her own terms and didn't pretend to be anyone other than who she was. Yet beneath that tough exterior was a woman who understood the raw, non-negotiable value of family, as her motherly instinct were pure steel. She didn't offer soft words; she offered shelter, action, a firm foundation, and never looked backed. She was real and unapologetically herself.

Today, we honor the grit, character, and fierce loyalty she showed when it mattered most. Her willingness to step up and carry the heavy burden of raising the next generation will always be remembered and respected by our family.

We take deep comfort in knowing that Cousin Debbie's children were cared for, and we hold significant respect for the shelter and foundation Mrs. Patricia built for them. May she rest easy now, her work on this earth well and truly done.

The Family of the Late Debbie Tart

The Family of the Late Debbie Dart

<3

Asia Cohen

Yesterday we laid you to rest, Grandma. You were more than a grandmother to me and my brother, you stepped in, raised us, loved us, and helped shape us into who we are today. My heart hurts knowing you're gone, but I find peace knowing you made it home to Heaven. Thank you for every sacrifice, every lesson, and every bit of love you gave us. You did your job here, and you did it well. I'll love and miss you forever.

- Your Granddaughter Hennessy

Hennessy Ferguson

Remembering Mrs. Patricia Ferguson Highsmith

When a family goes through hard times, you quickly learn who has the grit to stand in the gap. We remember and honor Mrs. Patricia Ferguson Highsmith for being that person when our family needed it most.

We first came to know Mrs. Patricia during a moment of sudden loss and uncertain time—when our cousin the late Debbie Dart transitioned. Watching Cousin Debbie's young children Quandrez, and twins Hakeem and Hennessy lost their mother was a weight no child should carry alone. In that time of profound loss, instability and change, Mrs. Patricia opened her heart and her home with unwavering support to raise the twins, her grandchildren, Hakeem and Hennessy along with their dad, her son Darryl. She gave them a home—a firm place to stand, filled with maternal strength, and the kind of tough unconditional love that keeps you grounded. Her selflessness, steady presence and parental instinct turned what could have been a tragic chapter into a story of resilience, and comfort, at a time when they were most vulnerable. She also embraced Cousin Debbie's other sons all the same, treating them as her own flesh and blood, especially Quandrez.

Mrs. Patricia was never one to smooth over her rough edges. She was a pistol—sharp-tongued, fiercely independent, and certainly not always easy. She lived on her own terms and didn't pretend to be anyone other than who she was. Yet beneath that tough exterior was a woman who understood the raw, non-negotiable value of family, as her motherly instinct were pure steel. She didn't offer soft words; she offered shelter, action, a firm foundation, and never looked backed. She was real and unapologetically herself.

Today, we honor the grit, character, and fierce loyalty she showed when it mattered most. Her willingness to step up and carry the heavy burden of raising the next generation will always be remembered and respected by our family.

We take deep comfort in knowing that Cousin Debbie's children were cared for, and we hold significant respect for the shelter and foundation Mrs. Patricia built for them. May she rest easy now, her work on this earth well and truly done.

The Family of the Late Debbie Dart

The Family of the Late Debbie Dart

To Darryl and the rest of the family. Keep the faith and cherish all the precious moments you spent together.

Wanda f.Flippen flippenwanda@gmail.com

To the Ferguson and Highsmith Family. Your loss is felt deeply by all who knew Patricia. May prayers and love surround you, and may God's comfort be your constant companion. Barbara Gray

Barbara Gray

So sorry, sending my condolences!!

Dot Washington

I Extend My Sincere Condolences And Prayers To The Ferguson And Highsmith Family. Mrs Patricia Was A Precious Soul Whom I Love Dearly. May God Grant Her Family Strength, Peace And Comfort During Your Time Of Bereavement. Love And Prayers 🕊️

Shirley Brabham Badger

My condolences 🙏 sending prayers. Deeply sorry for your loss.

Michelle Brown

There really are not words big enough to express how much tenderness I have for you right now. I hope you know I'm thinking of you and I know this is so hard. Take as much time to grieve as you need. You were a great Son, Tricia loved you so much, and it was so evident watching you that you loved them so deeply. I'm here for you, weeping may endure night, but your joy will come when you meet Tricia in heaven.

Catherine Russell

My deepest condolences to you the family. I worked with Pat at Milliken, we took our lunch breaks together. I remember her conversations so straight forward only about world news, house cleaning, keeping those windows shiny and with so much wisdom. Truly I know she will be missed. Canteen partner 🤲🏽🙏🏽♥️

Carrie Brown

My condolences to the Ferguson/Highsmith families. I had the pleasure of serving with Ms. Patricia on the Usher Board at Nazarene. She will be missed🌹

Wanda Morgan

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