John Patterson

John Knox Patterson, 78, of 333 Water St. Sugar Grove, VA passed away Friday, February 27, 2015 at Smyth County Community Hospital in Marion, VA. A native of Alamance County, he was the son of the late Dr. Hobart McKinley and Nina Graham Patterson, and husband of Ann Touchstone Patterson who survives. He is survived by children John Hobart Patterson, Mark Steven Patterson and wife Jenny, and Nan Patterson Cooper and husband David. Two grandsons John Harrison Cooper and James William Cooper. Also, granddaughter Katherine Nan Patterson; sister and brother-in-law, Jean and Charles "Chuck" Mann; sister-in-law, Nina Patterson; special aunt, Nannie Keck; numerous nieces and nephews and his special canine companion, "Rufus". He was preceded in death by a son, Ronald Lee Patterson. He is a graduate of Elon College and University of NC School of Law. He practiced law in Alamance County for over 40 years, and taught Business Law as an adjunct professor for seventeen years at Elon College. John was considered a gentleman cattle farmer and was known for his green thumb in the garden. He was a member of Friendship United Methodist Church, and an active participant at Wharf Hill United Methodist Church in Sugar Grove where he served in several boards of the church. John was a Mason and a Shriner. He was elected to the Alamance County Board of Commissioners in 1995 and was Chairman of the Board from 1997 thru 2004. John ran for NC State House of Representatives and was avid Republican. He served in the Alamance County Republican Party for many years, and made numerous friends throughout his tenure. He was appointed to the NC Railroad Commission by Republican Gov. Jim Martin, and was a previous member of the Coast Guard Auxiliary. In Sugar Grove he was a current member of the Community Council and the Young Farmers Club. John was loved by many, and touched the lives of those around him with his genuine honesty and kindness. He was selfless, always helping others less fortunate than himself. He will be missed by all that knew him. A memorial service will be held at 6:00pm Monday, March 2, 2015 at Friendship United Methodist Church by Rev. Charles Leonard and Rev. Henry Swanzey. The family will receive friends in the fellowship hall of the church following the service. At other times the family will be at the home of Nan and David Cooper; 203 Trinity Dr., Elon, NC.