Stanley H Patterson

Stanley Holt Patterson, age 90, of Powhatan, Virginia, a loving great-grandfather and devoted family man, left his earthly life peacefully on October 16th, 2025, to go be with the Lord.

Born on February 23rd, 1935, in Nottoway, Virginia, Stanley was a man of unwavering devotion. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Shirley May Patterson, with whom he shared over 60 years of love and laughter, and even through severe dementia, he still spoke of and remembered the details of their life together.

He is survived by his treasured great-granddaughters, Serene and Anna Butler, and their mother, Angie Major, who brought him immeasurable joy; and by his grandson, Christopher Butler, and great-grandsons, Jackson Major and Kody Layman, all of whom he created many wonderful memories with. Additionally, he is remembered by his children and many other extended relatives.

Above all, Stanley cherished Serene and Anna, devoting his heart and every moment of the past 18 years to their joy and well-being. Living on adjoining property, they shared daily routines, simple pleasures, and countless memories that bound them even closer. They lovingly describe him as their personal mechanic, life coach, teacher, chauffeur, and someone who would move mountains for them. From kindergarten through high school, he would meet them at the bus stop every afternoon with their favorite snacks, he would never allow them walk to or from the bus in the rain or the cold, took them on endless adventures, drove them to many local ponds to go fishing, gave them the best gifts, spent the summers taking them for ice cream and milkshakes, he would occasionally tell a little fib to their mother and say he needed to take them to get a new part for their four wheeler, and then come back with a brand new four wheeler, he taught them countless life lessons, and remained their anchor throughout their lives. His greatest gift in life was them, and he was theirs. He will be profoundly missed, leaving behind a void that only his love and presence could ever fill.

Professionally, Stanley lived a life filled with purpose and adventure. He served his community as a game warden, worked for the railroad, was a boat charter captain, and dabbled with airplanes and became a pilot. He spent many years enjoying his river cottage, had a deep respect for nature, enjoyed the simple peace of country living, and found joy in sitting on his porch swing, feeding hummingbirds and watching NASCAR.

Stanley's legacy is one of hard work, loyalty, and love, marked by the generosity with which he gave of himself to those closest to him.

The family will receive friends Wednesday October 22, 2025, from 2pm to 3:30 pm in the Bennett & Barden Funeral Home, Powhatan, Virginia. Followed by a graveside service in the Powhatan Community Cemetery, 4pm.