JoCathy Brownlee Elkington

JoCathy Brownlee Elkington passed away peacefully on January 24, 2025, a beautiful winter day in Memphis, her beloved home for nearly 60 years. Born in the heart of the Mississippi Delta on June 23, 1949, to James and Edith Zachariah Brownlee, JoCathy often said she lived a charmed life. With a warm smile and an open heart, she embraced every blessing with gratitude and never met a stranger. She forged countless lifelong friendships during her time at Mississippi College for Women and Memphis State University, where she earned her degree in education-though not before a memorable detour to Hawaii, where she spent a summer studying Hula. JoCathy's love of teaching and passion for sports came together in her role as a P.E. teacher at Georgian Hills Junior High. She also worked part-time as a hospitality suite waitress for the Memphis Southmen, which led to an unforgettable chance meeting and whirlwind romance with Elvis Presley. Over the years, JoCathy became a beloved figure in the Elvis fan community, captivating audiences worldwide with her storytelling, interviews, and tours. A natural storyteller, JoCathy had an extraordinary ability to lift spirits with her vibrant anecdotes and quick wit, often leaving her audience in laughter. She cherished her gatherings with her dear friends, affectionately called "The Magnolias," where happy hour was filled with laughter, memories, and camaraderie. JoCathy was an enthusiastic sports fan who passionately supported the Memphis Tigers, Grizzlies, and Tennessee Vols. She also loved watching golf and NFL games, often shouting at the television as though her favorite teams could hear her encouragement-or critiques. Throughout her life, JoCathy devoted herself to serving others. She volunteered with organizations such as Les Passes and Le Bonheur, always ready to lend a hand or offer support. However, her greatest joy and fulfillment came from her family, especially her two sons, Fletcher and Griffin. Their childhood was filled with affection, laughter, and unforgettable adventures-memories that will be passed down through generations. In her later years, JoCathy cherished her role as "JoJo" to her grandchildren, delighting in their accomplishments and milestones with boundless love and pride. JoCathy was preceded in death by her parents, her sister Mary Lou, and her brother Jim. She is survived by her sons, Fletcher (Jamie) and Griffin (Alison); her beloved grandchildren, Emery, Webb, Jack, and Natalie; and countless friends whose lives were touched by her kindness, humor, and warmth. A celebration of JoCathy's life will take place at Memorial Park Funeral Home on Thursday, January 30. Visitation will begin at 9 a.m., followed by a memorial service at 10 a.m. She will be laid to rest in Indianola, Mississippi, a place she lovingly described as where "the sun always rises." The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to Delbra, Kiki, Erika, and JoCathy's many cherished friends for their unwavering care, love, and support in recent years.