Patricia Gayle Carlson Stovall

On February 24, 2025, Patricia Gayle Carlson Stovall, known to all who loved her as “Trish”, passed into the arms of Jesus Christ, the Savior she adored, after a lengthy journey with Alzheimer’s dementia. She will be sorely missed by family and friends, but immeasurably celebrated in heaven, where “precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of His saints”. Trish was born to Sue and Alfred Carlson on December 31, 1946, a welcome tax deduction for her dad, who was a public accountant. She grew up just a few blocks from the University of Texas football stadium, where she spent many Saturdays in the end zone for home games. She graduated from the University of Texas in 1971 with a degree in medical technology. On December 18, 1971, Trish married her dearest love, James Gregory Stovall (Greg), and embarked on the fulfillment of her heart’s deepest longings: to be a wife and mother. Behind her love for Jesus, Trish’s priority was always her family. This was no more poignantly demonstrated than when Greg announced his inclination to apply to medical school. Trish’s response: “you’re probably going to be very busy in medical school, so we need to have some more children!” And so God brought five children to the family over sixteen years. Trish loved babies. She counted it a great privilege to nurse her babies any time, day or night, reluctantly weaning her last of five at the age of 43. She also served as the director of the nursery during the early years of Bethel Bible Church. She counted it a great joy to care for the newborn of a first time mom, so the mom could attend church and worship with peace and confidence in her newborn’s care. Trish’s home was the epitome of warm hospitality, and a frequent site for fellowship gatherings, holiday celebrations, showers and receptions. But nothing was more important than being the welcoming place for her children’s friends. She made sure the kitchen was always available for treats such as finger Jello, caramel brownies, and sports drinks. In her spare time, she volunteered at the school library, created counted cross stitch art, and played competitive tennis, participating in five state and two national competitions. Trish was a natural mentor without trying to be one. She was consistently surrounded by young women and young mothers, hoping to glean some timeless wisdom, which was readily dispensed with joy, humor, and encouragement. Trish is survived by her immensely blessed husband of 53 years J. Gregory Stovall (Greg), her five children and their spouses: Benjamin and Kristen Stovall, Amy and Carter Delleney, Jeremy and Monique Stovall, David and Hannah Stovall, and Daniel and Brooke Stovall; her ten grandchildren: Avery and Reid Stovall, Grayson and Peyton Delleney, Jonah, Pippa, and Elliott Stovall, and Weston, Hayden and yet-to-be-named Stovall; and her sister Suzanne Sauer. A celebration of Trish’s life is planned for 11am March 1, at Bethel Bible Church, 17121 US HWY 69 South in Tyler with Rev. Ross Strader officiating. Flowers are welcome. If you prefer a memorial gift, the family is very thankful for the care and services of Alzheimer’s Alliance of Smith County as well as Hospice of East Texas. Finally, if you have not contemplated a relationship with Jesus Christ, the Savior Trish adored, she would encourage you to do so. She would love to welcome you into His eternal kingdom when your time on earth is completed.

Patricia Gayle Carlson Stovall

December 31, 1946 - February 24, 2025