With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of our beloved father, William Herbert Patterson Jr., who peacefully passed away on August 4th, 2024, at the age of 81, after a long illness.

Born on November 27, 1942, in Hemingway, South Carolina, to William Herbert Patterson and Emma Jane Hilton Patterson, William, affectionately known as Bill to his friends and Bubba to his family, lived a life defined by hard work, dedication, and love. He made his home in Middletown, Connecticut, and New Jersey, impacting everyone he met.

Bill attended Chavis High School in Hemingway, SC, before beginning his career as a machine operator in Belleville, NJ. However, his true passion was driving. As the owner of his own trucking business, Bill traveled the country in his tractor-trailer, demonstrating an incredible work ethic. Even in retirement, he couldn’t stay away from the road and continued working with Mega Bus Company until his health declined.

He was preceded in death by his parents, William H. Patterson and Emma Jane Hilton Patterson; his wives, Lilley McCray Patterson and Christina Allen Patterson; his brother, Gaines Patterson (Glenda); and his sister, Patsy Patterson.

William is survived by his devoted brother, Joe B. Patterson, and sister-in-law, Dora Patterson of Hemingway, South Carolina, as well as a special cousin, Mary Patterson Davis (late Derrick) of Charlotte, North Carolina. His legacy lives on through his children, Ernestine Parker (David) and William Greg Patterson Jr., both of Middletown, Connecticut. He is also survived by four grandchildren from Middletown, CT, along with many nieces, nephews, and close friends.

Bill was known for his honesty and directness—he always spoke his mind, whether you agreed with him or not! A great listener, he provided sound advice without judgment and was always ready with a story or joke to make you laugh. Bill was a dependable and robust figure, someone you could count on in difficult times. He loved spending time with family and friends, engaging in political discussions, watching Westerns and CNN, and taking pride in his meticulously maintained garden. His lawn in Willingboro, NJ, was known as the greenest and best-kept in the neighborhood. Bill’s sharp sense of style was legendary—his fashion was always on point, and he took pride in his appearance. 

William Herbert Patterson Jr. will be deeply missed, but his memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.