Kenneth Poe Funeral Services

January 14, 2024

CHARLOTTE – With heavy hearts, we bid farewell to William Paul Patterson, 63, who passed peacefully on Sunday, January 14, 2024.

Born on May 1, 1960, to the late Robert “Bob” Bryan Patterson Jr. and Mae Katherine Brown Patterson. Growing up in Grayson County, Virginia, he was a proud Southwest Virginia native. A man whose infectious joy and selflessness touched the lives of all who knew him. Will, as he was affectionately known, was a true beacon of light, with a smile that had the power to illuminate any room and leave an indelible mark on the hearts of those he encountered. His larger-than-life personality made him the life of the party, the center of the dance floor, and a constant source of positivity. His remarkable character was defined by an unwavering commitment to putting others' needs above his own, embodying the essence of kindness and compassion.

A proud graduate of Virginia Tech in 1982 with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration and Accounting, Will was a true Hokie through and through. While at Virginia Tech, he met the love of his life, Ellen Ferguson. On July 2, 1983, they were married and moved to Charlotte, where they’ve resided since. Though they moved away, they traveled back to Blacksburg throughout the Fall, hosting tailgates on Chicken Hill and cheering on their beloved football team. Together, they shared a journey filled with love, laughter, and cherished memories. 

Professionally, Will's journey first led him to KPMG Peat Marwick in 1982, The Pinnacle Group in 1986, Cadmus Direct in 1989 and later, serving as the Chief Financial Officer and an Owner of Patterson Pope from November 1994 until his passing. He valued relationships in the workplace as much as he did the balance sheets. His ability to blend financial awareness with genuine concern for the well-being of his colleagues set him apart as a leader who not only drove results, but also cultivated a positive and collaborative work environment.

A member of Providence United Methodist Church for over three decades, Will's commitment to faith was evident through his active involvement, including teaching Sunday school for more than two decades and serving as the Chair of the Finance Committee at PUMC. His passion for imparting wisdom and nurturing spiritual growth showcased his profound dedication to community and faith.

Will's loves were simple yet profound: family, fellowship, faith, football, and farmers markets. In his free time, he enjoyed playing golf and relaxing on the beach with family and friends at Seabrook Island Club, creating lasting memories. Will and Ellen savored their monthly Serendipity Supper Club Dinners where they shared great meals and built lifelong friendships. His legacy will be remembered through the tunes he whistled, the dances he led, and the love he shared. Though he may no longer grace our presence, the echoes of his vibrant spirit will resonate in our hearts forever.

He is survived by his loving wife of over forty years, Ellen Ferguson Patterson, his children; Wesley Patterson and wife Ellie, Trent Patterson, Anne Katherine Patterson and fiancé Griffin. The youngest of five siblings, Will is also survived by his brothers Robert “Bo” Bryan Patterson, III and wife Carol, John Hollis Patterson and wife Deborah, David Moore Patterson and wife Catherine, and many other beloved family members. Will was overjoyed for the upcoming arrival of his first grandchild, Woodward Patterson. He loved his family dearly, and they adored him and gave him great joy.

In addition to his parents, Will was preceded in death by his sister, Perian Patterson Moose and her husband, Thomas Moose.

In honoring the memory of William Paul Patterson, let us carry forward the lessons of kindness, joy, and selflessness that he so beautifully embodied. May his soul find eternal peace, and may his family and friends find solace in the cherished memories they shared with this remarkable man.

A service of remembrance and celebration of Will’s life will be held at 1:00 PM on Thursday, February 22, 2024, at Providence United Methodist Church, 2810 Providence Road, Charlotte, NC. The family will receive friends following the service at the church. For those unable to attend, the service will be livestreamed via the following link: William Patterson Memorial Service Livestream

Arrangements are in the care of Kenneth W. Poe Funeral & Cremation Service, 1321 Berkeley Avenue, Charlotte, NC 28204 (704) 641-7606. Online condolences can be shared at www.kennethpoeservices.com.