On October 4, 2020 my first born child departed this earth at the request of her Lord and Savior. She had a long history of fighting multiple medical issues. Her mist recent fight began on August 28, 2020 and culminated on October 4, 2020 at the age of 48 from complications of a stroke and metabolic instability. Gwanda graduated from Drew High School where she was active in many activities including being the Drew Eagle mascot for the football team. She was active as an alumna of the Class of 1989.

As she progressed in pursuing her education, Gwanda found her sweet spot in speech pathology by graduating with honors from Delta State University. She was employed for several years by the Drew Public Schools as a special education instructor. She completed a program as a massage therapist, also. We found out that she had a special touch that gave you relief. She was a people person and one of her most enjoyable jobs was a casino host that provided her with an outlet for making a fashion statement each day. She loved fashion and was an online shopper.

Gwanda was an avid reader, writer, movie teacher. There was a resolve in her to share the Word with many young ladies who would visit. She loved many styles of music including Prince. For the family, she was our personal interior designer and jewelry maker. Her maternal grandmother lovingly called her "Monda" and enjoyed many long conversations with her.

Gwanda was preceded in death by her father, JD Peggy, and husband, Ronnie Patterson. She is loved by her mother Evelyn Peggy Smith, sisters, Jaretta Jones, LeCandice Williams, brother, Eliam Peggy, maternal grandmother, Evie Frank, two aunts, Vescia Smith and Alfeda Cooley, nieces, nephews, friends, and the staff and members of Tender Loving Care Adult Day Care, Cleveland, MS.

Gwanda was a member of Natha's Ministries The Word of God Church in Indianola, MS under the leadership of Pastors Larry and Georgia Green.

Gwanda Veleta Patterson will be laid to rest in the Drew Cemetery in Drew, MS.