Ollie Bell Patterson

     Ollie B. Patterson passed away on February 2, 2024, in Ozark at the age of 91. She was born on February 1, 1933, in Stilwell, Oklahoma, to Henry Lee and Donna (Watkins) Green.

     Ollie lived a remarkable life and touched the hearts of everyone she encountered, from her beloved family to her cherished friends. Above all else, Ollie's unwavering faith in Jesus Christ permeated every aspect of her existence; she was a true prayer warrior who loved the Lord with every fiber of her being. From a young age, she embraced Christianity and was baptized. Ollie dedicated herself to the First Baptist Church of Ozark, where her commitment to her faith flourished.

     The center of Ollie's universe were her beloved grandchildren. Each day, she made it a priority to be present in their lives as they grew up. She delighted in cooking for them, reading stories aloud, but most importantly, offering prayers for them and uplifting them with heartfelt supplication. Wednesdays were reserved for hosting memorable family meals while nurturing their creativity and helping with school assignments.

     Education played a pivotal role in Ollie's journey towards making a difference in the world. She earned her undergraduate degree in education from Missouri Southern and later achieved a masters degree from Pittsburg State University. In 1974, Ollie embarked on an illustrious teaching career as a kindergarten teacher at Eugene Field Elementary School in Webb City. Her passion for education led her to impart knowledge and shape young minds at Franklin and Webster Elementary Schools until her retirement as principal of Eugene Fields Elementary in 1999.

     Ollie is survived by her sons, Steve Patterson and wife Diann of Miami, Oklahoma, Dr. Kevin Patterson and wife Sarah of Ozark, and David Patterson and wife Angela of Ozark. Her legacy continues through her ten adoring grandchildren: Micah Patterson and wife Robin, Dr. Jessica Rimmer and husband Dr. Terry, Leah Rush and husband Scott, Sarah Campbell and husband Ryan, Kaleb Patterson, Keaton Patterson and wife Andrea, Kramer Patterson and wife Beth, Trenton Patterson and wife Ashley, Alyssa Crouse and husband Kerik, and Teagon Patterson.

     Her memory lives on in her great-grandchildren as well: Luke Patterson and Jillian Patterson, Myles Rimmer, Maris Rimmer, and Margot Rimmer; Oliver Rush, Swayden Rush, Bowen Rush, and Keller Rush; Edith Campbell, Ellis Campbell, Olive “Ollie” Campbell, and Caleb Campbell; Kolby Patterson; Joanna Patterson; McKinley Patterson, Zaylee Patterson, and Lakelyn Patterson; and Kamber Crouse and Tatum Crouse. She also leaves behind a sister named Leta O'Neal of Carthage to cherish her memory.

     Ollie was preceded in death by her husband Joe. She also mourned the loss of her daughter Linda Patterson. Additionally, a great grandson named Koa Crouse left an indelible void. Ollie was predeceased by her brother Elwin Green and sister Pauline Green.

     A funeral service to commemorate Ollie's life will be held on Friday, February 9th at 1:30 p.m. at Adams Funeral Home in Ozark. Reverend Steve Patterson will lead the service. Ollie will then be laid to rest at Weaver Cemetery in Ozark.

     In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Ollie's memory to the First Baptist Church of Ozark Building Fund https://www.shelbygiving.com/app/giving/fbcozark or the Nixa Sheltered Workshop. https://christiancountyenterprises.com/donate/