Richard Knox Patton

It is with profound sadness that the family of Richard Knox Patton of Joppa, Maryland, announces his peaceful passing on Tuesday, February 18, 2025, at the age of 92. Richard was born in Boston, Massachusetts, on June 29, 1932, to the late Leroy and Eleanor Patton.

Life and Career: Richard proudly served as a Baltimore City Police Officer, retiring in 1995. Prior to his law enforcement career, he was a professional minor-league baseball player for ten years with the Chicago White Sox and continued to umpire local baseball leagues in Baltimore to satisfy his passion for the sport. Additionally, Richard served in the Army during the Korean conflict. As a teenager, he attended Kenwood High School, where he earned numerous athletic awards and set various records.

In 1959, he married the love of his life, Robertina Castillo Gomez, whom he met in Colombia, South America while spring training for baseball. They celebrated their 64th wedding anniversary on June 13, 2024. Throughout his life, Richard provided for his family, and he enjoyed spending time with loved ones, babysitting grandchildren, watching sports, playing cards, visiting casinos, and traveling around the world. Richard was an active member of the Knights of Columbus and dedicated parishioner to Holy Spirit Church in Joppatowne, MD.

Family: Richard was preceded in death by his son, Eric Richard Patton.

He is survived by his wife, Robertina C. Patton; his son, Robert Edward Patton; and his daughters, Lisa Marie Hanes and Julie Ann Zuramski. He is also survived by his sons-in-law, Robert Louis Hanes, and Joseph Stanley Zuramski III; daughter-in-law, Kathryn Hoke; and sister, Sister Etta Patton. Richard leaves behind eight grandchildren, five great-grandchildren, and many other family members and friends who will miss him dearly.

Funeral Arrangements: Family and friends are invited to gather at the Schimunek Funeral Home, located at 610 W. MacPhail Road, Bel Air, MD 21014, on Friday, February 28, 2025, from 2-4 PM and 6-8 PM. A funeral mass for Richard will take place on Saturday, March 1, 2025, at 11:00 AM at Holy Spirit Catholic Church, located at 540 Joppa Farm Road, Joppatowne, MD 21085. Interment will follow at Trinity Lutheran Church, 1100 Philadelphia Road, Joppatowne, MD 21085.

Memorial Donations: In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Richard's name to Holy Spirit Church at 540 Joppa Farm Road, Joppatowne, MD 21085.

Richard Knox Patton will be remembered for his dedication to family, community service, and joyful spirit.