James Edward Patton

“How to be a friend,” James could have written a book about it but never would have and never needed to. He showed us how in so many ways. He was brave, honest, trustworthy, dependable, meticulous, and caring. If he did not know how to accomplish something, he would study until gaining the required proficiency.

James was an avid tennis player, martial artist, marksman, fisherman, and chess player, among many skill levels. He was an unsung warrior who survived the Vietnam War and the tragic death of his love and wife, Barbara Jo Johnson. He was a teacher, a thinker, a giver who met many friends along the way.

He is survived in death by his five children who cherish him and will continue his legacy: Truc Ha (Phuong), Leslie Patton (Markie), Courtney Patton, Dr. Sabre Patton-Fee (Colin), and Nichole White (Ashley). Son of the late Willie and Anna Patton, preceded in death by dear brother Gregory Patton. He was survived by sisters Willa Dean (Ronald) Dewberry, Brenda (John) Williams, Cynthia McGhee, and Robert Patton. James was grandfather to nine grandchildren, Jacquelynn (22), Hillary (11), Zack (9), Ajani (18), Aniya (16), Aubrey (10), Ashley Jr (7), George (5), and Joseph (4). James was Uncle to a host of nieces and nephews. He was brother-in-law to his two sisters (Jaruth [Jeff] and Jennette) and also brother (Floyd), who survived him.

Most, however, knew him as a friend and diligent advocate at work and in his community. They could count on James [Jim] for little or small things. He was also known for anything he could provide; an honest word, a lift to the tennis court, stand-in wingman for the next cornhole match.

James believed in letting his actions speak louder than his words - not from impulse or out of pride but of love and an emphasis on taking things moment by moment and learning and living with purpose.

With great honor, on Friday, August 18th, 2023, we lay to rest Father, Brother, Uncle, Sa Bum Nim, Army Veteran, and dear friend – James Edward Patton.

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