Patsy Rowland Pickens

Patsy Rowland Pickens, 85, of the New Harmony Community in Blue Springs, Mississippi, passed away peacefully at her home on March 4, 2026, surrounded by her loving family. She was reunited in Heaven with her beloved husband of 65 years, Robert Pickens, and her parents, Norris and Gazelle Rowland.

Born in New Albany, Mississippi on September 22, 1940, Patsy grew up attending New Harmony School, where she played basketball, and later graduated from Sherman High School, where she was named Queen of Hearts. There she met Robert Pickens, her King of Hearts, and they married on May 2, 1958. Together they raised three children: Tammy, Terry, and Lisa. Patsy opened Pat’s Beauty Shop in New Harmony after completing her cosmetology training, later transforming it into a craft shop where she taught tole painting, plaster molding, and macramé. With Robert’s help, she added Pat’s Sweet Shop, which became a beloved gathering place for neighbors and farmers alike.

Patsy was the heart of the New Harmony community. Her home was a hub for neighborhood children who played basketball in the dirt court and enjoyed her famous sweet tea. She later worked as a salesclerk at Gregory Jewelry and Van Atkins Department Store in New Albany until her retirement. In her later years, she found great joy in traveling with family, painting, tending her colorful flower gardens, and doting on her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, who affectionately called her Memaw. A devoted member of New Harmony Baptist Church, she served as a deacon’s wife, Sunday School teacher, and flower arranger for many years, while cherishing her church family and the fellowship they shared.

Throughout her life, Patsy offered steady strength, comfort, and love to her family, especially in times of need. She cared for her parents in their final years and faithfully walked beside Robert through his battle with Alzheimer’s. She is survived by her children, Tammy Roberts (Dan) of Blue Springs, Terry Pickens (Dana) of Blue Springs, and Lisa Russell (Mark) of Saltillo; ten grandchildren and eleven great-grandchildren; and her brother, Danny Rowland (Christine) of Blue Springs. Her family will forever cherish the love she poured into everyone around her and the seeds of faith and kindness she planted in all whose lives she touched.