E. Anthony Patterson I, of Newport, Arkansas, departed this life on Friday, Oct. 2, 2020, at the age of 76.
He was born Nov. 27, 1943, in Newport, the son of Robert Wood and Lina Mae (Hembrey) Patterson.
In 1968, Patterson married Shirley Ann Ray, they spent 52 years together.
Patterson was a Master Plumber, well known locally for his trade.
He enjoyed fishing, hunting, and motorcycles. Mr. Patterson was very artistic and loved history and learning. He enjoyed reading about archeology and looking for arrowheads and Native American artifacts.
Patterson spent many years as a member of the Newport Pentecostal Church of God. During his time there he participated in the Prison Ministry, and the Bus Ministry, making sure anyone who needed a way to church was taken care of.
In later years, he was a member of the Healing Hands Community Church, where he was a part of the HHCC Men’s Group. He loved his family and friends, but he loved his Lord most of all.
Patterson was preceded in death by two brothers, Robert Wood Patterson and Ricky Benskin; one sister, Helen Smith; and his parents.
He is survived by his wife of 52 years, Shirley Ann (Ray) Patterson of the home; one son, Anthony Patterson, II and wife, Stephanie, of Trumann; three grandchildren, Kaytlin, Spencer, and Adrianna Patterson; two brothers, Thomas R. Patterson of Swifton, and Jerry Patterson of Newport; one sister, Martha Ray of Newport; a special niece, Rhonda Mann; several nieces, nephews, and friends.
Friends may visit at the funeral home, Tuesday, 5:00-7:00 p.m. Funeral services are 1:00 p.m. Wednesday, at Jackson’s Newport Funeral Home Chapel.
Arrangements by Jackson’s Newport Funeral Home.
Due to COVID-19 mandates, masks and social distancing are required at visitations and funeral services.
