Visitation
noon - 2 p.m.
Service
Donald Lynn Patterson, 78, of Morganton passed away November 7, 2022 after a period of declining health.
Born in Smithfield, NC he was the son of the late Lynn Clifford Patterson and Beulah Small Patterson of Hiddenite. Don was a long-time resident of Morganton & his larger-than-life personality was well known and beloved in the community.
Don began his early career as a soldier then MP in the US Army serving in Vietnam, to be followed by a career in law enforcement. Don retired as a sergeant with the North Carolina Highway Patrol after 30 years of service. For most of his career and post retirement years, Don was active in a variety of organizations supporting law enforcement & veterans affairs (DAV, VFW, SEANC) as well as an active member of the Catawba Valley Masonic Lodge #217. Don loved spending time in the NC mountains and on the coast, he was a collector of many things and could teach a master class in delivering the punchline to a joke. Don was a great friend to so many and he enjoyed his many active roles in the community over the years and beamed with pride when he spoke of his favorite role as father and granddaddy to his girls.
He is survived by his wife of 57 years, Alva Jean Patterson; daughters Julie Patterson Broombaugh & husband Andrew of Concord and Leslie Patterson Mull & husband Travis of Morganton as well as his 3 beloved granddaughters Clementine Broombaugh, Evelyn Broombaugh and Kaiden Mull. Additionally, he is survived by sister Helen Jones and husband Ron of Florida; sister-in-law Connie Patterson of Hiddenite and many numerous nieces, nephews and extended family.
In addition to his parents, Don was preceded in death by his brother Frank Patterson of Hiddenite.
The family will receive friends from 12 to 2 p.m., Monday, November 14, 2022 at Sossoman Funeral Home. The graveside service will follow at 2:30 p.m. at Burke Memorial Park with Rev. Ed Stephenson officiating. Honors will be provided by the NC National Guard, Caldwell County Veterans Honor Guard, NC Highway Patrol, and Catawba Valley Masonic Lodge #217.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Disabled American Veterans (DAV).
Sossoman Funeral Home and Crematory Center is assisting the family with the arrangements.
Tribute Wall
Leave a tribute for Donald Lynn Patterson.
Blessings to your family during this time. I was privileged to send a lot of wonderful moments with Don. At the races in Charlotte, SEANC meetings and conventions, cooking BBQ and other times we met. Just a great man and a servant to all he came in contact with. Catty on "SSSOOONNN"
Don was my training officer, my shift partner in F1 for many years, my mentor, and served as the MC at my retirement dinner from the Highway Patrol. But more importantly, he was my FRIEND. Thank you Brother for your service to our nation and your many years of service to the citizens of North Carolina as a member of the North Carolina State Highway Patrol. You were truly a LEGEND and will never be forgotten by the troopers that had the privilege to serve with you. Rest in peace BROTHER
We will miss Donald as we have for the past year, health is something we just can't control. Rest in peace Donald. The DAV will miss your presence. DAV Chapter #43 PO Box 572 Morganton, NC 28680-0572
My condolences, prayers, and love to you Alva Jean, your children and all of your and Don's family. It was a nice surprise to connect again with you all in Nags Head several years ago, along with some of your family. Love and prayers, Stella Wood Singleton
Abby and family. Rita and I are praying for you r family during this most difficult time. Don was a one of a kind person who served his friends, State of North Carolina and county with kindness and dedication.
Dear family, We are so sorry for your loss. Just know that you are in our thoughts and prayers. We love you. Vic and Lisa