Neva Joann "Joann" Lovelady

Neva Joann Lovelady, age 87, of Jacksonville, Arkansas passed away peacefully on October 13, 2025 surrounded by her loved ones. She was a loving mother, grandmother, sister, and friend who will be dearly missed.

Joann was born on March 3, 1938 in Atkins, Arkansas to Johnny Lester and Ava Patterson. She was an in-house caretaker for 10 years until she retired in 2002. After she retired, she became a full-time grandmother. She loved babies, taking care of kids, and being "Ninnie" to her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

From a small cabin in East Dumas to homes in the city, Joann always beautified her surroundings and family. She cooked, did laundry, decorated, and provided security every day. She was a shoulder to cry on, a person of encouragement, and the model of loving sacrifice. Need advice? Just a look from her and you'd know if you were right or wrong. She was patient, kind, dependable, and non-judgmental. She fed the poor, got up early every day to feed her family and to work at home. She was always ready to listen with wisdom and help.

She is survived by her daughter, Nina Lovelady, her son, Chris Lovelady, and her daughter, JoAnna Scott (Byron). She had 12 grandchildren, 16 great-grandchildren, and 3 great-great grandchildren. She is also survived by her sister, Sylvia Russo, and her brother Herman Patterson (Linda). She is preceded in death by her parents, two sisters, two brothers, and her son, Mark Patterson.

Visitation will be held on Friday, October 17, 2025 at 10:00am with funeral service starting at 11:00am in the chapel at A Natural State Funeral Service in Jacksonville.

Arrangements by A Natural State Funeral Service & Crematory 2620 West Main Street, Jacksonville, Arkansas 72076. 501-982-3400. Online guestbook available at www.anaturalstatefuneralservice.com