Elizabeth Ann Fletcher

Elizabeth Ann Fletcher, a devoted matriarch,  and cherished friend, departed this world on October 20, 2024, at the age of 91. Born in Linn, Mississippi, in 1933 Elizabeth graced the lives of many with her warmth, kindness, and unwavering commitment to her family and community.

A woman of remarkable spirit, Elizabeth dedicated herself to nurturing her family and supporting her community. She was the proud mother of three daughters: Carol Sue Murphy of Oakton, Virginia; Barbara Ann Kent (Bob) of Cleveland, Mississippi; and Pamela Beevers (Greg) of Olive Branch, Mississippi. Her legacy lives on vibrantly through her grandchildren: Megan Elizabeth Lantz (Brian), Justin Murphy (Caitlin), Catherine Kent Gunn (Trey), Bobby Kent III (Janis), Ryan Evan Murphy (Shannon), and Bethany Ann Kent Horner (Lance), Amelia Elizabeth Beevers. Elizabeth was also blessed with great-grandchildren, including, Taylor Grace Gunn, Olivia Ann Gunn, Brantley Evans Kent, Miriam Ansley Kent, Lydia Mae Kent, John Michael Murphy, Elisabeth MaryCarol Murphy, Charles Barry Murphy, Dillon Fletcher Lantz, Cameron Murphy Lantz, and James Barry Murphy. She is survived by a host of nieces and nephews who will carry fond memories of her in their hearts.

Throughout her life, Elizabeth exemplified dedication and service. She was a volunteer leader within the local 4H Club and proudly held the distinction of being the longest active member of the Shipman Chapel Homemakers Club. Her contributions extended beyond these roles as she actively participated in the First Baptist Church Cleveland, where her faith flourished, rooted in the profound experience of being saved at the age of sixteen during a revival at Interstate Baptist Church. She was also a charter member of Yale Street Baptist Church, firmly anchoring herself within her spiritual community. She also enjoyed serving each of her churches by singing in the choir.

Elizabeth’s formal education began at Linn and continued at Merigold schools, but the greatest lessons she imparted came from her nurturing heart. Elizabeth married the love of her life, George Evans Fletcher, on Christmas Day, 1952, and together they built a beautiful family, united in love and devotion. She adored her children and grandchildren, joyously engaging in activities that brought them together, whether it was through cooking, entertaining, gardening, or sewing. Elizabeth possessed a rare gift for balancing duty and delight, crafting a home filled with warmth and laughter.

Though Elizabeth has departed from our midst, her spirit endures in the lives she touched and the love she instilled in those around her. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, George Evans Fletcher, her mother, Artie Frances Braswell Simmons Mullen, father, John Eston Simmons, stepfather Sydney W. Mullen, sister, Nettie Helen McClure, brother-in-law Douglas McClure and son-in-law, Barry Michael Murphy.

Elizabeth’s memory will be honored during a visitation on October 24, 2024, at First Baptist Church, Cleveland, MS, from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m., followed by a Celebration of Life service at First Baptist Church in Cleveland, commencing at 11:00 a.m. Reverend Brad Beckwith will officiate the services.

Pallbearers are Ryan Evan Murphy, Justin Robert Murphy, B J Kent III, Trey Gunn, Roland McClure, Lance Horner, Brian Lantz, and Joel McClure. The honorary pallbearers are Greg Beevers and Bob Kent Jr.

As we celebrate this extraordinary woman's life, we remember Elizabeth Ann Fletcher for her unyielding love, her cherished presence, and the indelible mark she left in our hearts. She was truly a blessing to all who knew her.

Memorials may be made to the Mission Fund at First Baptist Church 101 N. Bolivar Avenue, Cleveland, MS 38732.

Cleveland Funeral Home has been given the honor of serving the Fletcher family.