James Patterson

James Henery Patterson of McCalla, AL went to Heaven on February 2, 2024 after a fierce battle with Melanoma. He fought for over 10 months and was able to complete a last family road trip to Inlet Beach for his granddaughter's wedding on December 29th.

James was born March 30, 1942 to Ottis and Nancy Patterson in Bangor, AL. James moved to Birmingham as a teenager and graduated from West End High School in 1962 where he was a stand-out athlete in football, basketball, and baseball. He married Becky in 1963 and raised his family in Midfield, AL. He was involved with his daughters hobbies which included Midfield Dixie Softball. He dedicated countless hours to this program from 1975 -1983. He also supported his son-in-law Coach Randy Thomas by attending almost every game for Bessemer Academy's football program from 2011 -2021.

He is survived by his wife of 60 years Rebecca Lisk Patterson. Daughters Nancy Patterson Thomas (Randy) of Hoover, AL and Jamie Patterson Snider (Alan) of Athens, AL. He had seven wonderful grandchildren - Blake Thomas of Hoover, AL, Courtney Thomas Morgan (Bobby) of Hoover, AL, Jillian Thomas Deas (Dr. Dale Deas) of Atlanta, GA, Andrew Snider (Marianna) of Athens, AL, Ashleigh Snider Hainline (Kenny) of Crookston, MN, Anna Grace Snider and Amy Beth Snider of Athens, AL. Two great-grandsons Brody Deas and Peyton Snider. 

James was the middle child of seven- Peggy Haynes (2008), Mary Goodwin (2024), Cecil Patterson (2023), Paul Patterson (1991), Jean Pellegra (2012) and David Patterson.

James retired after 45 years of truck driving with International Brotherhood of Teamsters in 2006. He loved collecting coins, painting, attending sporting events, beach vacations, working in his yard/garden, Peanut Butter and Jelly sandwiches, and The Price is Right. He will always be remembered for never being late (We are certain that he created the slogan" If you are not First you are Last"), his precise work ethics, competitive winning spirit, and love for dogs especially Lester.

The family would like to thank the UAB Palliative Care Unit especially his nurse Bethany for their sincere commitment to caring for James and making him and the family feel special. Please consider donating in his honor to: UAB Palliative Care 1808 7th Avenue S BDB 420F Birmingham AL 35294.

Create A Tribute Video