In Memory

Dana Bruce Patterson - Class Of 1971

Bruce Patterson passed away at home on Saturday, January 29, 2022, at age 70 after nearly a four year battle with brain cancer. He was born March 4, 1951, to the late Paul and Ernestine Patterson and was a long time resident of Whitehall, Va. He was a member and trustee of Mount Moriah Methodist Church in Whitehall, Va.

Bruce was married to his wife, Julia for 50 years. They have two children, Lonnie (April) and Benjamin Patterson. Bruce leaves behind two sisters, Janet Steppe and Carolyn Patterson (Randy Coleman). He also leaves behind numerous relatives and many, many close wonderful friends. Bruce was a pillar in his community and was loved and respected by the community.

After graduation from Albemarle High School, Bruce was drafted into the U.S. Army. After basic training at Fort Campbell, Kentucky, he was deployed to Daly Barracks, Bad Kissingen, Germany. Bruce was in the 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment also known as the Blackhorse Regiment. During his tour of duty in Germany, Bruce and his unit received three Presidential Citations. He also received a Good Conduct Medal and numerous Weapons Medals for his service in Germany.

After serving in the military, Bruce returned to Whitehall, Va., and worked in carpentry, a trade taught to him by his grandfather, Ernest Johnson. Later in life, he went into farming, again following in his grandfather's footsteps.

Bruce had a passion for Bluegrass music and enjoyed getting together with friends and playing his mandolin. Bruce also had a passion for hard work and the great outdoors. He always praised God for all His wonderful creations, the amazing sunsets, the falling snow, and the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains. Bruce lived the simple life, helping those in need, farming, gardening, riding his four wheeler and shooting the breeze with his friends.

God has taken a Mighty Warrior home, escorted by a ten thousand Angel Bluegrass Band, each angel representing a friend of Bruce's or someone that Bruce has touched along life's way. Bruce may be gone in body, BUT he will live forever in the minds and hearts of those who loved him. He will be missed tremendously by his family, friends, and community.

A graveside service will be held at Mount Moriah Methodist on Garth Road, Whitehall, Va. on Wednesday, February 2, 2022 at 2 p.m. followed by a reception under the pavilion that Bruce helped construct.

In lieu of flowers, please send memorial contributions to Mount Moriah Methodist Church 4524 Garth Road Charlottesville, Va. 22901.