Cruse Patton Nolen Bevill died at home on Thursday, Dec. 15, 2016.
Born May 6, 1950, in Florence, Ala., she grew up on Clear Creek Farm, a place Cruse
treasured and frequently visited as she and her devoted husband, Don, reared
their own family in Birmingham.
She was the daughter of Alice Patton and Robert Brown Nolen. Her parents were known for hosting dinner parties and farm gatherings at Clear Creek, and they impressed
upon young Cruse the importance of friendship, community and hospitality —
passions that Cruse exemplified beautifully throughout her life.
Cruse was the third generation in her family to graduate from The University, a winning tradition that her children were thrilled to continue. After earning her bachelor’s degree, Cruse began her career as a travel consultant at All Seasons Travel, where she
retired 41 years later. She shared her passion for travel with her daughters,
taking them each on a mother-daughter trip to Paris on their 11th birthdays —
the first of many trips they would take as a family.
Cruse treasured spending time with her husband and girls, as well as a large network
of friends that included a loving and supportive group of prayer warriors. She
and Don especially enjoyed attending football and basketball games in
Tuscaloosa with friends.
A member of Saint Luke’s Episcopal Church, The National Society of Colonial Dames of
America, the Junior League of Birmingham, and Pickwick Dance Club, Cruse
participated in a host of activities and worthwhile causes.
Cruse is survived by Donald Henry Bevill, her husband of 34 years; daughters Julia
Lonsdale Bevill and Cruse Nolen Bevill; sister Lonsdale Nolen Glennon (Jimmy);
brother Robert Brown Nolen, Jr. (Lydia); and 14 nieces and nephews.
A memorial service for Cruse will be held Tuesday, Dec. 20, at 3:00 p.m.
at Saint Luke’s Episcopal Church in Birmingham. The family will receive friends
at the church at 2:00 p.m. prior to the service.
In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be made to Bethany Village at Camp McDowell, 105
Delong Road, Navoo, Ala., 35578, or to Saint Luke’s Episcopal Church, 3736
Montrose Road, Birmingham, Ala., 35213.
Elkins Funeral Home of Florence is assisting the family.
