Patrick Henry Counts

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Patrick Henry Counts, who passed away in Raleigh, NC on May 17, 2025, at the age of 93. Born on June 23, 1931, in Marlow, GA, to Mattie Roberts Counts and Rev. Fulton Bryan Counts, Pat was a loving husband, dedicated father, and cherished grandfather.

After graduating from high school in Haralson, GA, Pat went on to study engineering at Southern Tech College/Georgia Tech University. He was a proud veteran of the U.S. Army during the Korean War, stationed at Ft. Lewis in Tacoma, Washington. Following his military service, he worked for the Geological Survey/Department of Interior of the U.S. Government, collecting and publishing data on Tennessee’s streams and rivers to ensure our water sources were safe.

Pat was a skilled self-taught craftsman and could often be found in his workshop. His love of plants, flowers, and birds was a lifelong passion, along with his devotion to his beloved Vols and love of the Smoky Mountains.

A lifelong Lutheran, he was a member of St. John’s Lutheran Church and a community volunteer for Meals on Wheels.

He is survived by his loving wife of 66 years, Charlsie Koehler Counts; his children, Angie Counts Splawn (Stephen) of Elon, NC, and Joe Counts (Kristina) of Nashville; his grandchildren, Patrick Counts, Elizabeth Counts, and Renick Splawn; and his brother, Rev. Dr. Edward Luther Counts (Donna) of Charleston, SC.

He was preceded in death by parents Rev. Fulton Bryan Counts and Mattie Roberts Counts, and brothers Fulton Bryan Counts Jr and Rev. Robert Paul Counts.

A graveside service will be held on Wednesday, May 28th at 11:00 am, at Asbury Cemetery in Knoxville, TN.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his memory to Samaritan’s Purse (samaritanspurse.org or 800-528-1980).

Service arrangements by Brown-Wynne Funeral Home & Crematory, 300 Saint Mary's St. Raleigh, NC 27605.