Barbara Bigelow Patterson

Barbara Janet Bigelow Patterson, beloved wife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother, was called home to Heaven on Wednesday, January 7, 2026 at the age of 92, her loving husband, Ed by her side.

Her life was one of unwavering faith, love, commitment, support and encouragement to her husband of 69 years and to her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Barbara was born on Easter Day, April 16, 1933 in Evanston, Illinois to John and Roberta (Bassett) Bigelow.

When she was 18 years old, while attending the University of Michigan, she met Ed Patterson on the first day of classes. Ed was sitting in art history class as the students came up the stairs. Barbara stood in the doorway looking for a place to sit and Ed looked up and said to himself, “Wowwww!” He knew he would marry her one day. He soon had an opportunity to meet her. As she washed her hands at the long sink in their charcoal drawing class, Ed conveniently needed to wash his hands, as well.

Barbara, who was an amazing artist, was graduated from the University of Michigan in 1955 with a degree in graphic design. She and Ed were married on June 23, 1956 and drove away in their Jaguar XK120 Roadster to a honeymoon at the Fontainebleau in Miami Beach.

Their first child, Laura, was born and the little family moved to Gulf Breeze, Florida. Three more children soon followed…Melissa, Julie and Eric. Barbara could often be found reading at the beach and enjoying family times on their sailboat, the Lorelei. She was also an iconic presence in Gulf Breeze for many years as she walked 6 miles a day. Her family also loved her famous camper cookies, which she always had ready for them whenever they came by.

Barbara loved the Lord and attended Calvary Chapel Gulf Breeze for many years. Of her faith she said she had always wondered what she was here for and then one night she prayed and felt the Lord telling her that she was here to know Jesus Christ and to tell others about Him.

She will be remembered for her deep love for her family and her strength and support for all those who loved her. Her legacy of unconditional love and commitment, shown in her devotion to her husband and family is a foundation upon which future generations have already been built.

Barbara is survived by her beloved husband Ed, with whom she shared 69 amazing years, 74 years of being sweethearts. Together they built a loving and supportive family with their four children, Laura (Don), Melissa Patterson, Julie Luttrell (David), and Eric Patterson. She loved her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren so much. Her grandchildren include Jarrod Palmer (Ashley), Rachel McCurdy (Aaron), Kyle Luttrell (Mikayla), Ryan Luttrell (Audrey), Hannah Luttrell, Grace Palmer and Faith Palmer. Her great-grandchildren, who loved to draw pictures for her, include Elijah, Isaac, Lydia, Eleanor, Daniel, Caleb and new baby Palmer; Emma, Ben, Elaina, Max, Josiah, and Avagrace McCurdy; Sean Luttrell and Weston Luttrell.

Barbara is preceded in death by her daughter Melissa and her great-granddaughter Ellabeth.

The family would like to sincerely thank Samantha Tourgee and People’s Hospice and also the wonderful and caring people at The Camellia.

“I have been crucified with Christ and I myself no longer live, but Christ lives in me and the real life I have within this body is a result of my trusting in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me.” Galatians 2:20

A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, Feb. 7, 2026

Coastline Calvary Chapel Gulf Breeze

1122 Oriole Beach Road

Gulf Breeze, FL 32563

1:00 Visitation and 2:00 Celebration of Life