OBITUARY: Patricia Jean Johnson Hartman

Patricia Jean “Patsy” Johnson Hartman, fondly known as Patsy, passed peacefully on Oct. 12, 2024, in her beloved Richmond County, North Carolina, where she was born Dec. 7, 1942. A spirit of love, warmth, and kindness, Patsy touched the lives of those who were fortunate enough to have known her.

Patsy’s professional journey was marked by dedication and hard work. She began her career with esteemed companies like Burlington, Klopman, J.P. Stevens, and later continued her passion as she and her father opened Quality Plus Cleaners, showcasing her remarkable skills as a seamstress. Her career was not just a means of livelihood; it was a testament to her creativity and tenacity, reflecting the loving, caring personality that she carried with her throughout her life.

As a family woman, Patsy epitomized devotion and nurturing. She is survived by her loving children: James G. “Jimmy” Shephard (Beverly), Lori Jacobs (Louis) and Lisa Benoist (Charles). The legacy of her love continues through her grandchildren, each of whom held a special place in her heart: Jimbo Shephard (Mandy), Seath Shephard (Nina), Melody Bruce (Jason), Stephanie Allen (Lewis), Michael Mabe (Paige), Cameron Jacobs and C.J. Benoist; along with numerous great- and great-great-grandchildren. Each moment spent with her family brought her joy, and she cherished every gathering and every shared memory.

Patsy also leaves behind her dear sister, Becky Boger (Wade). The bonds of sisterhood brought light and laughter into her life, and their connection was one built upon mutual support and affection.

While Patsy mourned the loss of her father, Jame Clay Johnson, and her mother, Grace Watts Johnson, alongside her late husband, Raleigh Lee Hartman, and sisters Minnie Lynch and Marsha Presnell, she carried their memories close to her heart. She also regarded Janice Bryant as a sister, weaving an additional thread of love into the fabric of her life.

Her warmth and smile will be missed by many, especially during the visitation at Carter Funeral Home in Rockingham on Tuesday, Oct. 15, 2024, from 6 to 8 p.m.

Funeral service will be held on Wednesday, Oct. 16, 2024, at 1 p.m. at Carter Funeral Home in Rockingham. The outpouring of love and memories shared during these gatherings will surely honor the beautiful spirit of Patsy Jean Hartman with the Rev. Gene Alexander officiating. She will be laid to rest beside her beloved husband at Northam Cemetery following the service.

Patsy leaves behind a legacy of love, compassion and strength, and her memory will forever be etched in the hearts of those she cherished. As we gather to celebrate her life, we find solace in knowing that her warm spirit will continue to guide us through our days.