Dr. George William Patterson Jr.

Dr. GW “Bill” Patterson, Jr. passed into eternal life on Tuesday, October 14th at the age of 93. He is survived by his lovely wife of 64 years, Mary; children, Richard (Linda); Prisca; Sam(Rema); 11 grandchildren and great grandchildren. Bill was preceded by his son Daniel Durwood Patterson who entered eternal life in March of 1996. Many will remember Bill as the Dean of Columbia Christian College (1973-77). Before moving to Oregon, Bill was the dean of the Harding Graduate School of Religion, in Memphis, Tennessee. For many years, Bill and Mary traveled to churches of Christ throughout the country holding teacher workshops and leadership training courses. Together they opened the first Church of Christ Bookstore in Dallas, Texas. Bill contributed to “The Growing Christian Teacher” magazine as co-editor for many years. He was also the founder of Adult Continuing Education (ACE), which help Christians get college credit for Church Bible study. He wrote several books; the most popular on Church History with his last being Christ Centered, Servant Leadership. He produced numerous Bible study guides and workbooks on Discipleship. Much of his work has been donated to the mission field. Bill will be remembered for his devotion to his faith and for sharing his gift of teaching. He will be deeply missed. A memorial service will take place in Sunday November 23rd at 3pm at Metro Church of Christ in Gresham, Oregon.