James Thomas "Tom" Patterson

James Thomas “Tom” Patterson, Jr., 81, of Stoneville passed away peacefully on September 5th, 2026 at Ancora Compassionate Care in Wentworth, NC. A funeral service to celebrate the life of Tom will be held 11:00 am Tuesday September 8th at Fair Funeral Home Chapel, with a visitation immediately following the service at the Morehead Fair House with food and refreshments.

A graveside burial will be held Saturday, September 19, 2026 at 11am at Overlook Cemetery.

Tom was born in Leaksville on April 7, 1945 to the late James Thomas Patterson, Sr., and Sadie Hall Patterson. He was known throughout Rockingham County and surrounding counties for many years as the owner and operator of Patterson Gravedigging. His precision with a backhoe was remarkable and he would often tell folks “I’m the last one to let you down.” Tom was a simple, selfless and meek man, who loved his family, his special friends he claimed as family, his work and his church, First Baptist Church of Draper that became like family to him.

Left to cherish his memories are his wife of 57 years, Martha Turner Patterson of the home, daughter, Dawn Cockrell (Andy) of Kenly, NC; granddaughters, Valerie Martin (Isaiah) of Goldsboro, NC and Alayna Cockrell of Kenly, NC; nephew, Harold Wayne “Jam” Patterson of Asheboro, NC and numerous extended family members &  precious friends.

 In addition to his parents, Tom is preceded in death by his brother, John “Wayne” Patterson.

In lieu of flowers the family ask that donations be made in honor of Tom’s life to First Baptist Church of Draper, 1017 Fieldcrest Road, Eden, NC. 27288 or Gibson House, 2150 NC 65, Reidsville, NC 27320. Online condolences may be offered to the family at www.fairfuneralhome.com