Oerlee Jacobs

Oerlee "Pat" Jacobs, a beacon of love and kindness, passed away peacefully on January 29, 2026, at the age of 88 in Spartanburg, SC. Born on October 6, 1937, in Tuscaloosa, AL, Pat grew up to be a person of strong faith, a loving mother, and a cherished friend to many.

Pat was known for her unwavering commitment to her beliefs as a Jehovah's Witness, a dedication that spanned 53 years. Her faith was the cornerstone of her life, guiding her in her daily actions and her approach to helping others. Pat's kindness extended beyond her spiritual community, touching the lives of all those she met.

A devoted mother and grandmother, Pat leaves behind a legacy of love and family. She is survived by her sons, Phillip Watkins and Stoney Watkins and his wife Susie; her daughter, Cretia LeBlanc and her husband Jeff; and her grandchildren, Scott, Blaine and his wife Jessy, Blake and his wife Reina, Lauren and her husband Aharony Watkins-Ayala, Hayden, Skylar and his wife Kait, Dakota, Sterling, Buddy and his wife Jordan, and Katelyn (Skyler) Thomas. Pat was also a proud great-grandmother to Sebastian, Benedict, Asher, and Kimber.   She was preceded in death by her sons, Danny and Ricky Watkins.

Pat's career as a beekeeper was a source of joy and pride for her. Her work not only allowed her to provide for her family but also to connect with nature and the community. Pat also wrote beautiful poetry and songs that her family still cherishes.   She was known for her gentle touch with the bees and her ability to produce honey that was as sweet as her disposition.

Her interests were as varied as they were fulfilling. Pat had a passion for gardening and growing her own food, which was a testament to her self-sufficiency. She loved to cook for her family and friends, especially her famous biscuits, tomato gravy, and banana pudding, which were legendary within her family circle. Pat's love for cooking was matched only by her love for playing games with her loved ones, with Rook and "4 pics 1 word" being among her favorites.

Those who knew Pat will remember her for her loving heart, her kind spirit, and her infectious sense of humor. She had the rare ability to light up a room with her laughter and to make everyone feel at home in her presence. Pat's legacy will live on through the countless memories she created with those she cherished.

As we say goodbye to Oerlee "Pat" Jacobs, we celebrate a life beautifully lived and a woman dearly loved. Her impact on the world was as profound as the love she gave so freely, and she will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her.