Obituaries 08/07/2025
Gary Lynn Crafton
WATER VALLEY – Gary Lynn Crafton passed away at his home in Water Valley on August 01, 2025. He was born June 5, 1953, to the late Walter and Jeanette (Logan) Crafton. He attended school at John Rundle High School in Grenada and graduated from Grenada High School in 1972.
After high school, Gary worked in the local grocery store’s meat department. There, he learned that he would like to find more in life than chopping meat. He started scouting cotton, where he became interested in farming. Gary decided to go to college for a degree in agriculture. He started at Holmes Community College and then went on to graduate from Mississippi State University with a Bachelor’s Degree in Agriculture. He went to work for the USDA, where he would find a career in Farm Services. Gary served as President of MACOE from 1988 until 1989.
Gary was an outdoorsman, sportsman, fisherman, and an avid hunter. Turkey hunting was his favorite of all outdoor activities. He genuinely loved just being in the woods with these beautiful creatures and talking to them with his different calls, and of course, bringing home a trophy kill. Gary was even a founder of Tillatoba Creek Hunting Club and once held a state record for wild turkey. He also enjoyed music and playing the guitar.
Gary was a man who truly enjoyed life, maintaining positivity no matter what was going on around him. He amazed his family with the way he could keep smiling, never falling into depression or worry. Gary smiled even on his deathbed and kept a positive attitude to the very end of his life.
Visitation will be Wednesday, August 6, in the Gardiner Room at Seven Oaks Funeral Home from 11 a.m. until 1 p.m. Services will immediately follow at 1 p.m. in the Henry Chapel of Seven Oaks. Rev. Haskel Rhodes will officiate.
Gary is survived by one son, Brad (Julia) Crafton; one sister, Patricia (Jimmy) Treloar; nieces, Chelsea Crafton (Andrew Brininstool) and Jenna (Nic) Ehrke; nephews, Jeff (Tricia) Treloar, Steve (Christi) Treloar, Levi Crafton, and Reed Crafton; two grand-nieces, and two grand-nephews.
Along with his parents, Gary is preceded in death by his two brothers, Tommy and Glenn Crafton.
Patsy Poe Elliott
WATER VALLEY – It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Patsy Poe Elliott, a beloved mother, sister, grandmother, and friend, who departed this life on August 2, 2025, at the age of 79.
Born December 11, 1945, in Grenada, Patsy was a cherished member of the Water Valley community. She graduated from Water Valley High School in 1964 and her pursuit of knowledge continued as she attended Northwest Community College, where she completed computer classes, a testament to her lifelong love of learning.
Patsy’s professional journey included notable contributions in the commercial manufacturing industry, working for esteemed businesses such as B&M Building Supply under the guidance of John and Sarah McMinn; and at Bondafoam Inc. with Sonny Loolar. Her colleagues and customers alike will remember her for her infectious smile and her generous spirit, always ready to lend a helping hand.
An avid flower gardener and passionate cook and baker, Patsy created a warm and welcoming home filled with love and laughter. She was particularly devoted to her family, and her happy disposition drew everyone to her like a magnet.
Patsy is survived by her loving daughters, Elaine (Greg) Varner of Oxford and Mary Grace Elliott of Batesville; her cherished grandchildren, Brittany (Joey) Williams of Oxford and Wilson Varner. Moreover, she found immense joy in her role as a great-grandmother to Layla Grace Burrell and Bowen Williams. She also leaves behind her sister, Barbara Griffin of Oakland, who will carry forward her legacy of kindness.
Patsy is preceded in death by her parents, Robert Poe and Mary Poe.
A visitation will be held on August 7 at noon at Seven Oaks Funeral Home, followed by a celebratory funeral service at 2 p.m. Following the service, Patsy will be laid to rest in a burial at Oak Hill Cemetery, where her warmth and love will forever be remembered.
Henry Donald Gualtieri
WATER VALLEY – Henry Donald Gualtieri passed away peacefully in his sleep on July 29, 2025. A cherished friend, brother, father, and grandfather, he will be remembered for his unwavering spirit and generosity.
Born on August 16, 1951, in Brooklyn, NY, Henry completed high school in California and honorably served his country in the United States Army for 20 years. He achieved the rank of Sergeant First Class before his discharge in January 1988. His diverse journey led him to open his own machine shop, showcasing his passion for mechanics and craftsmanship.
In 1991, Henry relocated to Mississippi, where he found a new home and community that embraced him. Living in Water Valley, he could often be found at Randy Walker’s shop, lending a helping hand with old cars, trucks, and motorcycles. With a heart that knew no bounds, he loved riding his Harley, reveling in the beauty of the countryside and enjoying journeys to visit his beloved grandchildren.
A true lover of music and movies, Henry derived joy from sharing his passion with those around him—creating CDs and DVDs for friends and attending concerts of his favorite bands. His culinary skills were renowned in the community, as he took great pleasure in preparing meals for those around him. Henry’s kindness knew no limits; he often anonymously gifted bicycles and toys to children throughout the county, leaving a footprint of joy wherever he went. Known for his modern approach and keen understanding of technology, Henry formed friendships easily, always ready to assist with a warm smile and a helping hand.
Visitation was held Tuesday, August 5, in the Gardiner Room at Seven Oaks Funeral Home. The funeral service immediately followed at 4 p.m. in the Henry Chapel of Seven Oaks with Mr. Binnie Turnage and Bro. Brennan Allen officiating.
Henry is survived by his daughters, Angela (Mark) Preston and Tanya (Thomas) Rogers; one son, Brian Gualtieri; siblings, Theresa Klos, (Lu)igina Newmann, John R. Gualtieri, and Mary Jo Jones; six grandchildren, Andrew, Isiaha, Haley, Kyle, Ria, and Kara; and one great-granddaughter, Selene, with two more on the way.
He is preceded in death by his parents, Mary Gualtieri and Michael Gualtieri.
James Aaron “Jamie” Smith
OAKLAND – James Aaron “Jamie” Smith, a beloved husband, father, and brother, passed away in Ecru on July 3, 2025, at the age of 42. Born on March 1, 1983, in Batesville, Jamie was a 2002 graduate of Coffeeville High School. He was from Oakland.
Jamie grew up with a love of the outdoors and sports. He loved to hunt and fish and was an avid fan of the Coffeeville Pirates. While at CHS, he played football and was on the powerlifting team.
Jamie is survived by his wife, Joyce Smith; his children, Matthew Smith and Madison Smith of Booneville, Hunter Smith of Coffeeville, and Tabatha Rogers, Bubba Rogers, and Salena Hollinger, all of Ripley; and his sister, Bettye Durham of Bartlett, Tenn., who held a special place in his heart.
He is preceded in death by his parents, Thomas and Loretta Smith of Oakland; his grandparents, Aaron and Marion Smith, also of Oakland; and JW and Esther Hanks of Batesville.