Patricia Ann Lastinger Howerton

Patricia Ann Lastinger Howerton, 83, of Sylvester, GA formally of Sasser, GA., passed away on February 2, 2025, at Pruitt Health of Sylvester. Funeral Services will be held Saturday, February 8, 2025 at 11:00 A.M. at Mathews Funeral Home. Mr. Ross Powell will officiate. Interment will follow in Floral Memory Gardens.

Born on May 14, 1941, in Moultrie, Georgia, to the late Eulia and Thereisa Lastinger. She moved to Albany in 1959 from Tallahassee and moved to Sasser in 2017 until her illness. Patricia devoted many years to her profession as a floral designer at Bud's Flowers, where she skillfully expressed her passion for working with flowers. She was a member of the Ladies Auxiliary VFW #2785.

Patricia was a dedicated member of her community, known not only for her artistic talents but also for her strong opinions and down-to-earth demeanor. She loved attending Liberty Baptist Church where she was a charter member, where her faith played an integral role in her life. Her family and friends often admired her resilience and strength, which earned her the affectionate title of a "tough lady."

Patricia was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Edward Howerton, and her sons, Joel Bates, Alex Bates, and Jeffery Bates, her sisters, Carolyn Taylor and Jean Daniels.

She is survived by her son, Scotty Bates (Melissa) of Albany, GA; her brothers, Wyatt Lastinger (Angie) of Clarksville, GA, and Tom Lastinger (Gloria) of Albany, GA; along with thirteen grandchildren, seventeen great-grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews.

Visitation will take place on Saturday February 8, 2025 from 10:00 AM until funeral hour.