Patricia "Patsy" Garrison

Patricia Garrison of Minden, LA passed away peacefully in the comfort of her home surrounded by her children on Friday, February 6, 2026. Patsy was born in Marion, Ohio on October 26, 1928. In her youth, she loved to swim, enjoyed the big bands and school dances, and favored spending time with her many friends. She disliked anything to do with numbers and was advised by a teacher, “never take another math class again,” which she happily fulfilled. She excelled in art, earned her associate’s degree in fine arts from Christian College in Columbia, Missouri, and was accepted to Parsons School of Design in New York City. After arrival in the big city, however, she insisted upon going back to Ohio with her mother on the return train. Over the years, she delighted her friends, family, and community with her beautiful paintings, with exhibits at the Barnwell Garden and Art Center, Tower Gallery, and “Artport” at the Shreveport Airport, along with many commissioned portraits.

Patsy was active in her community, including membership in her beloved Presbyterian church in Minden, where she designed the cover of the Sunday worship bulletin. She served in the Minden Women’s Department Club and Garden Club. She was an avid reader and bridge player, and she loved her daily crossword puzzles.

Patsy met her loving husband of 64-years, Bill Garrison, in Marion, Ohio. Bill’s job in sales led to frequent moves throughout their lives, including Riverside (NJ), Atlanta (GA), Jacksonville & Fort Lauderdale (FL), Findlay (OH), Plymouth (MI), Newark (OH), and Dothan & Enterprise (AL), until finally settling in Minden, Louisiana for the past 40+ years. Patsy was a devoted mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, and a dear friend to many throughout her life, drawing people easily to her through her authentic spirit, vibrant sense of humor, and genuine interest in others. She was a wonderful cook and loved to entertain, creating a home that always welcomed family and friends with warmth and love.

Patsy was preceded in death by her husband, Bill Garrison. She is survived by her children Laura Garrison (Mike), Richard Garrison (Pat), and Jill Hensley (Rob); grandchildren, Nick Fine, Oliver Garrison (Christine), Max Garrison (Chelsea), Neil Garrison (Leslie), and Natalie DeWitt (Kevin). She also leaves behind six great-grandchildren: Greta, Lea, Rowan, Piper, Henry, and Conor. She was also preceded in death by her parents, Claiborne and Margaret Smoot, and her brother Bill Smoot.

Patsy inspired others to live honestly, be positive, and love fearlessly. Her invincible spirit will live in us forever. A celebration of life is being planned in early March with details to be provided at a later date.