Kenneth Ray Patterson

Kenneth Ray Patterson, 74, of 1021 Lawson Street, made his final flight to his heavenly home on Wednesday afternoon, February 16, 2011, at what seemed like a most appropriate place for a man who loved flying, Pace Airfield in Ridgeway, VA, after he had returned from an afternoon of enjoying his aircraft. A funeral service will be held at 1 PM on Saturday, February 19, at Bethel Baptist Church where he was a faithful member. Burial will follow in Lawson Cemetery. As a native of Rockingham County, Mr. Patterson was born July 25, 1936, son of the late Harry and Gwendolyn Owens Patterson. Kenny was an Eagle Scout, a Scout Master, and earned the "God and Country" award. He was a 1954 graduate of Tri-City High School and attended NC State University, remaining a devout fan through the years. Mr. Patterson was a Lieutenant Colonel with the US Air Force Civil Air Patrol, a member of Sons of the American Revolution, Nathanael Greene Chapter and past president of that chapter and flag bearer for Sons of Confederate Veterans, a member and Commander of the Military Order of the Stars and Bars. He also served as historian for that organization. Mr. Patterson was a member of the Nathanael Greene Chapter - Color Guard. For many years he served with Search and Rescue for the Civil Air Patrol. Flying was his passion and he made his first solo flight on November 24, 1984. His interests being very diverse, he was an artistic man, enjoying the drafting of house and church plans, drawing and painting. He also loved taking pictures and was an avid photographer. Kenneth enjoyed his church and serving the Lord in whatever capacity he was needed whether it be cleaning the church, keeping the exit light bulbs replaced or visiting church members with his preacher, whom he loved. In 2000 he retired from Fieldcrest Mills after having worked in mechanical development for 37 years. Surviving is his wife of almost 49 years, Joan Stegall Patterson of the home; and in-laws, Larry and Carol Rhodes of Eden, Lloyd and Glenda Dunn of South Boston, VA, Charlie and Laura Stegall of Elizabeth City and Randy and Pam Shope of Stoneville; many nieces and nephews; great-nieces and great-nephews; and numerous cousins. The family will receive friends 2 hours prior to the service (11 AM to 1 PM) at Bethel Baptist Church, and other times at the residence. Friends and family are welcome to pay their respects at Fair Funeral Home Friday afternoon and evening and Saturday prior to the visitation and service at the church. Memorial contributions may be made to Bethel Baptist Church, 313 Cedar Street, Eden, NC 27288; or to MOSB (attn: Gary Faulk) PO Box 121, Pleasant Garden, NC 27313. Online condolences may be made to the family at www.fairfuneralhome.com