Mel was born in Elfrida, Arizona on Friday, June 2, 1939 to I J and Willie Meda Patterson, as the youngest of six children.
As an adult, after serving a couple of years in the United States Air Force, Mel and his wife, Sue, settled in Memphis, Tennessee, where they started raising their family. Later they moved to Virginia where Mel, an electrical engineer, enjoyed his career in the elevator industry. In later years, he enjoyed woodworking, gardening, being with family, playing Sudoku, and traveling to visit with grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He was also active in his church over the many years of his life, with his most recent membership being at Truth Baptist Church in Mechanicsville.
He is survived by his children: Teresa Patterson Abood (EJ), Jay M. Patterson (Kathy), and Lee P. Patterson (Shannon); his 14 grandchildren and his nine great-grandchildren.
Mel is predeceased by his loving wife, Sue Janes Patterson (2020), and all of his siblings.
Celebration of life to be scheduled at a later date. In lieu of flowers, please donate to your local church in memory of Mel.
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