Jack Patterson Obituary

Jack H. Patterson, 86, husband of the late Carolyn "Cookie" Patterson, passed away on Thursday, March 12, 2026.

Born and raised in Highlands, NC, he was the son of the late Frones Plumer Patterson and Carrie Prince Patterson Winkles. A true son of the Blue Ridge Mountains, he was molded by the kinship and hardworking values of the high country, and carried with him the quiet strength and resilience of his rural farm upbringing throughout his life. A man of few words, but often with immense weight, Jack possessed a discerning spirit and a steady resolve.

Jack and his beloved wife of 63 years started their family in Western NC, and moved to Greenville to raise their children and grandchildren. Jack was a man defined by his devotion to others, living a life of steadfast service. He served in the United States Army Reserves during Vietnam, and retired as a Captain from Parker District Fire Department after 25 years of service. Whether through his brotherhood as a Master Mason and Shriner, his spirited fervor in the Parker High School Athletic Booster Club, or his leadership as a Parker District Sewer and Fire Subdistrict Commissioner, he sought every opportunity to better the world around him. His hands were never too busy to help his Sans Souci neighbors, and his heart was forever committed to the community he called home. He was of the Baptist faith.

Jack was an avid fisherman and boater, who loved camping and spending time at the lake. He enjoyed playing golf, and cheering on the Clemson Tigers and Atlanta Braves. He was a consummate tinkerer with a penchant for trucks, always seeking the next project or deal. He took great pride in caring for his pristine lawn, harvesting his own vegetable garden, and could almost always be found outside. Above all, Jack was the strength of this family, a devoted and adored brother, husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. He was loved beyond measure, and though his long watch has ended, his spirit of service lives on eternally in the hearts of those he loved.

He is survived by his beloved family: daughter, Shelia Mills; son, Jeffery Patterson (Ruth); granddaughters, Courtney Roberts (Daniel), Ashley Foster (Benjamin), Julianna King (Mitchell), Melanie Shepherd (Corey); grandson, Jacob Patterson; sister, Judy Seratt; nephew, Mark Walker (Whitney); and step-brother: Jack Marcus. Jack was also a very proud great-grandfather to great-granddaughters, Truvy Roberts, Adalyn King, and a third on her way.

In addition to his wife and parents, he was preceded in death by his aunt Eileen Prince Chastain; brother-in-law and best friend Jimmy Seratt; and brother Lane Markum Patterson.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, March 18, 2026, from 11:00 AM until 1:15 PM at Thomas McAfee Funeral Home, Northwest, followed by the Funeral Service at 1:30 PM. Public graveside services will follow at 3:00 PM at Woodlawn Memorial Park with full Masonic, Firefighter, and Military Honors.

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