Patsy Louise Clowney Bloom

Dr. Patsy Louise Clowney Cruse Bloom, lovingly known as “Miss Pat,” “Aunt Pat,” “Mama,” and “O.G. (Original Grandma),” was born on December 25, 1948, in Kannapolis, North Carolina, and peacefully transitioned from labor to reward on her 77th birthday, December 25, 2025, after a courageous battle with bladder cancer. Rooted in deep faith and fierce devotion to family, her life embodied “The Oil that Lingers,” a legacy of love, laughter, service, and uncompromising authenticity. The sixth of eight children of the late Leroy and Johnnie Mae Clowney, Patsy grew up in a lively home of seven girls and one boy, and was also lovingly nurtured in her early years by Mr. Charlie and Mrs. Sally Reid, who helped shape her generous, agape filled heart. A proud 1967 graduate of George Washington Carver High School, she later received an honorary Doctorate of Humane Letters from B On U Theological Institute on December 22, 2025, in recognition of her lifelong sacrifice, support, and service to her family and community. On July 3, 1966, she married the late Samuel Lee Cruse, and together they raised five children: Everett “Donnie” Cruse, the late Emma Lavon Cruse, Cory Cruse (Melinda), Dr. Johni “Le’Ray” Cruse Craig, and Crystal Cruse. Her family expanded to include ten grandchildren, thirteen great grandchildren, cherished nieces and nephews, and many “bonus children,” spiritual sons and daughters whom she claimed and celebrated as her own. Each one was a treasured jewel in her crown. Patsy worked faithfully in a variety of roles—from Cannon Mills and local businesses to the North Carolina Department of Corrections, where she retired as a Corrections Officer—always known for her blend of firmness, fairness, and compassion. She was a dedicated servant in the church, singing in choirs, serving in kitchen ministry, and supporting & volunteering B On U International Ministries, and lending her gifts to S.O.J.E.R. Global Outreach and the Black Greek Letter Consortium’s outreach efforts for the All of Us Research Program. In 2009, God blessed her with a second season of love when she married the late Michael E. Bloom, with whom she shared a home themed “A Legacy of Love.” Known for her humor, candor, big laugh, bigger heart, and “100 proof” advice, Patsy made everyone around her feel seen and loved. Even as she faced illness, she modeled grace, courage, and unwavering faith. Her oil lingers in the wisdom she shared, the meals she prepared, the hugs she gave, and the prayers she whispered. Her children, grandchildren, great grandchildren, and all who were shaped by her light will carry forward her strength, joy, and authenticity for generations to come. Link for Memorial Website: https://oilthatlingers.org/

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Patsy Louise Clowney Bloom

December 25, 1948 - December 25, 2025