Edward Eugene Patton

Edward Eugene Patton (Eddie), 84, passed away peacefully at his home in Alpharetta, GA on Thursday, November 29, 2012. He was born in Lima, Ohio on June 14, 1928 to the late Robert Barnes Patton and Mabel Motter. He was preceded in death by his wife of 50 years, Dorris Ann Brinkman and also by his son, Bruce "Skip" Freeman. He is survived by his children Paula Reid, Larry Freeman, and Rob Patton : grandchildren, Ashley, Brandea, and Chad Freeman, Heather and Holly Freeman, Andruw, Brendan, and Christopher Patton, Jennifer and John Reid : great grandchildren, Andrew, Peter, Caleb, and Abigail Reed, Addison and Piper Freeman, and Violet Whitfield.

Ed graduated from Gaffney High School (South Carolina) in 1947. He later served our country in the US Navy from 1950-1954 (Korean Conflict) and was commissioned on the U.S.S. Yosemite (AD 19) He was also decorated with a National Defense Service Medal in 1954. Ed later received an Electrical Engineering degree from Ohio Northern University on August 21, 1959 where he met his late wife, Dorris Ann.

Anyone who knew Ed would mention his honesty, integrity, and charisma. Additionally, they would talk about his selfless nature in which he conducted his life. Romans 12:16 tells us that an important facet of love is unselfishness characterized as the willingness to adapt and adjust to the needs and desire of others. It resulted in countless acts of kindness to family, friends, and strangers alike. He will also be remembered for his love and passion toward animals. He treated them with love, compassion, and respect. An Ashley Montagu quote best captures Ed's feelings towards animals, " I have always had a deep love for animals, and could never understand when others mistreated them, or were indifferent to them. I know I have often felt my spirit diminished by their indifference". Photography was an important aspect of Ed's life. It was a way of feeling, of touching, of loving. He believed that what you caught on film is captured forever.... it remembers the little things, long after one has forgotten everything. Music was a critical aspect of his life that connected him with others and provided a path for expressing his love and admiration for others. Throughout his life, the guitar was the instrument of choice. Ed also enjoyed listening to all types of music from classical, country, jazz to soft rock. His involvement with his church's choir was a great source of enjoyment and form of worship.

It would be remiss not to mention his love of aviation. This Interest was sparked while at Ohio Northern University. Ed received his license in his mid 20's and flew most of his life. He enjoyed owning several aircraft and also became involved with motor-less flight with gliders. Interestingly, his father (Robert Barnes Patton) was a glider instructor during World War II. He was revered as a top notch pilot with an unblemished safety record. It is unquestionably one of his greatest joys while on earth.

Memorial Service commemorating Ed's life is planned for 11:00 AM on January 25, 2013 at the Messiah Lutheran Church, 4765 Kimball Road, Alpharetta GA 30005. Family and friends are asked to assemble at the church at 10:30 AM on the day of the service.

In lieu of flowers, family and friends my donate in his memory to Messiah Lutheran Church.

Arrangements by Byars Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Cumming, Georgia.