Gerald Warren Patterson, beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend, passed away peacefully at his home in Waldron, Arkansas, on August 21, 2025. He was 92.
Born on January 26, 1933, in Santa Rosa, California, to Paul Patterson and Ruth (Butts) Patterson, Gerald grew up in a close-knit family as the eldest of five siblings. He met the love of his life, Judith Marilyn Anderson, while they were both students and members of the gymnastics team at Pacific Union College. They married on November 21, 1954, beginning a partnership grounded in faith, devotion, and joy.
In January 1953, Gerald enlisted in the United States Army as a National Defense Service medic. He received an honorable discharge on September 30, 1953, following an injury sustained in service. He carried the values of duty and care with him throughout his life.
Gerald’s life was defined by his faith, his family, and his community. He was a man of gentle spirit—loving, kind, steadfast, and quick to lend a hand. He found deep joy in studying the Bible, sharing meals and stories with his family, and spending time with his grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and friends. A tireless worker and an eager traveler, he loved to see the world and return home with tales that inspired laughter, wonder, and gratitude.
He was proceeded in death by his cherished wife, Judith Marilyn Patterson on December 21, 2008. He is survived by his devoted children: Michael Richard Patterson (Vicki), Jerilynn Marie Stricker (Ken), Deanna Ruth Patterson, Loralee Joy Norfleet (Jack), and Kevin Kenneth Patterson (Laura). He was the proud grandfather of Corrilee Kielmeyer, Kellilyn Yukawa, Lexi Burns, Amanda Williams, Jack Stricker, Heather Stricker, Brooke Patterson, Jessica Walters, and James Stricker; and the loving great-grandfather of Deven Patterson, Svea Williams, Curtis Kielmeyer, Koga Williams, Victoria Burns, Torrin Kielmeyer, Chelsea Childs, Aubrey Harrison, Dahlia Sawyer, Rynn Williams, Amelia Burns, Emberly Yukawa, and Lachlan Walters. He was the eldest brother of Laurence, LaVerda (Midge), Darlene, and JoAnn.
Gerald will be remembered for the way he cared,—for his unwavering belief in the goodness around him, his uplifting nature, and his constant presence for those in need. His legacy lives on in his family and in the hundreds of lives he touched.
A celebration of Gerald’s life will be held on June 20, 2026, at Memorial Hall, 96 South Main Street, Waldron, Arkansas. In lieu of flowers, please bring a decorated or painted rock or a small potted plant to be placed in his memorial garden.
