James Edward Patterson

James (Jim) Edward Patterson, a long-time resident of Odem, Texas, passed away peacefully on Saturday, August 3, 2024, at 3:48 p.m. His passing was due to a home accident.

Jim, son of Joe and Eileen Patterson, was born on February 5, 1942, in Freeport, Texas. In 1954, his family moved to Thibodaux, Louisiana, where he graduated from high school. He returned to Texas to live in Corpus Christi, where he attended Del Mar College. Jim had a career in the oil industry, starting with Southwestern Oil Refinery, then Kerr-McGee. His last position before retirement was with Koch Industries as Product Planner.

On June 7, 1978, Jim married Joyce Smith. His pride and joy was his family. He is survived by his wife Joyce, his son Todd Patterson and wife Kelly, daughter Janna Pape and husband Greg, daughter Jenny Patterson and husband Chris, and grandchildren Zach and Sloane Patterson. He is also survived by his brother Ken Patterson and wife Edna, and sister Marilyn Padgett, as well as numerous nieces and nephews. 

Jim was a devout Christian and served his church faithfully as a member, Trustee, and Facilitator for the NOMADS for many years. We know he is in heaven with Jesus and his family before him. We are grateful he is no longer in pain.

Jim was loved by everyone. He was always willing to help friends and neighbors. And he could fix just about anything. He loved to fish and shared his love of fishing with his children and grandchildren. He was always there when they needed him. Jim loved to grill—his baby back ribs were a family favorite. His last purchase was a new BBQ pit.

Jim was the love of Joyce’s life. We join her, with very heavy hearts, saying Goodbye to our beloved father, Opa (grandfather), brother, father-in-law, patriarch of the Patterson family. We will mourn his loss and miss him terribly.

Memorial Services for James Edward Patterson will be held August 17, 2024 at First United Methodist Church. Family receiving visitors 1:00-2:00 PM, with memorial service to begin at 2:30pm, and reception to follow.