Mr. Millard Gene Patterson's Obituary
Funeral Service for Mr. Millard Gene Patterson, 87, of Jacksons Gap, Alabama, will be Monday, August 11, 2025 at 2:00 pm at the Chapel of Radney Funeral Home. Rev. Andy Kinman will officiate. Burial will follow in the Hillview Memorial Park. The family will receive friends on Monday, August 11, 2025 from 12:30 pm to 1:30 pm at Radney Funeral Home.
Mr. Patterson passed away peacefully at his home on August 7, 2025. Born on October 5, 1937, in Tallapoosa County to Sam Patterson and Ruth Kelly Patterson, Gene's demeanor and spirit were larger than life itself, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of those who knew him.
Gene served his nation with honor and distinction as a member of the United States Air Force for over two decades. His commitment to his country was unwavering, and his service earned him the respect and admiration of his peers. Upon retiring from the Air Force, Gene channeled his dedication into a fulfilling career as a maintenance technician at Horseshoe Bend National Military Park. There, he continued to serve his community until his retirement in 1999.
Gene's zest for life extended well beyond his professional endeavors. He was an avid outdoorsman, often found camping and fishing during his leisure time. His love for the serenity of nature was only matched by the joy he found in tinkering with small engines, a hobby that allowed him to engage his keen sense of curiosity and mechanical aptitude.
Most of all, Gene was a family man at his core. His grandchildren were the light of his life, and he cherished every moment spent with them, imparting wisdom and sharing in their youthful adventures. They, in turn, looked to their grandfather as a fountain of entertaining tales and hearty laughter. Gene's gift for storytelling and his ability to deliver a well-timed joke won him the affection and camaraderie of those around him.
Gene's passing leaves behind a legacy of steadfast service, spirited enthusiasm for life, and a profound capacity for love. His stories will continue to echo in the gatherings of his friends and loved ones, a testament to a life filled with joy, laughter, and unwavering commitment to the things that mattered most to him. The world is undeniably richer for having had Mr. Millard Gene Patterson in it, and his memory will be treasured by all who had the privilege of knowing this remarkable man.
He is survived by his wife, Ruth Patterson of Jacksons Gap; daughters, Julie (Samuel) Bowden of Alexander City and Susan (Philip) Weddle of Alexander City; son, Sammie (Stacey) Patterson of Jacksons Gap; grandchildren, Benjamin (Sarah) Patterson, Michael (Jessi) Patterson, Megan (Adam) Smith, Kelsey (Chris) Spann, Bethany (Jared) McDaniel, Rebecca Bowden, and John Bowden; great-grandchildren, Brenna Murphy, Connor Murphy, Ashton Smith, Payton Smith, Brody Spann, Lyla Patterson, and Wyatt Patterson.
He was preceded in death by his parents; siblings, William Patterson, Louise Grey, Eva Thornell, Odena Counts, Myrtle Caldwell, Mildred Knight, Marie Yarbrough, and Leon Patterson.
Radney Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of Millard Gene Patterson.
What’s your fondest memory of Millard?
What’s a lesson you learned from Millard?
Share a story where Millard's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Millard you’ll never forget.
How did Millard make you smile?
