Jerry “Patches” Patterson of Rowlett, Texas passed away on February 11, 2019 at the age of 64. He was born on September 23, 1954 to William and Opal (Ely) Patterson of Farmersville, Texas. He graduated from Garland High School. He married Viola Florence Tompkins on October 14, 2000 in Rowlett, Texas. In his teens, he began bull riding in the rodeo and in his early twenties, he traveled around the country as the drummer for “The Halyard.” Around this time, Jerry began his career as a commercial painter for over 20 years. Later in life, Jerry found a love for Harley Davidson Motorcycles. He held various positions within the Dallas Harley Owner Group including the director for six years. It was during this time, that he was instrumental in the founding of the Annual Motor Cops for Kids Toy Run in 2002. Over the last 17 years, the annual toy run raised almost $400,000 and thousands of toys for the Shriners Hospital. Jerry also loved being “Patches” the clown for the Shiners Hella Temple. Jerry will be remembered for his true passion for giving back to the community and bringing a smile to the face of children, especially the sick and special needs. Jerry was also an avid golfer.
Jerry is survived by his wife, Viola Patterson of Rowlett, Texas; brothers and sisters, Gayla Flowers and husband, Buddy of Crandall, Texas, Jerry Pherson and wife, Marilyn of Sun City Center, Florida, and Jerrell Taylor and wife, Jana of Garland, Texas; aunts, Melba Williams of McKinney, Texas, Doris Pittsinger of Farmersville, Texas, and Maralyn Ely of Maybank, Texas; and numerous other loving family and friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents, William and Opal Patterson.
A funeral service will be held at 12:00 noon, Sunday, February 17, 2019 at Turrentine- Jackson-Marrow Funeral Home Chapel, 2525 Central Expressway North, Allen, Texas. Interment will follow at Ridgeview Memorial Park in Allen. The family will receive friends during a visitation at 10:30 a.m., Sunday, February 17, 2019 at the funeral home.
The family suggests that donations may be made in Jerry’s name to Motor Cops for Kids at the Dallas Harley Davidson, 1334 W. Centerville Road, Garland, TX 75041.