Rev. George F. Patterson

NEW HARTFORD - Reverend George F. Patterson, age 82, went to be with the Lord on Friday, February 16, 2018 in the comfort of his home with his loving family by his side. Born in Blue Hills, in the beautiful Turks and Caicos Islands on September 5, 1935, George was the son of the late Alberta Palmer and Hilton Parker. Born David Parker, he was raised in the Islands and at the age of 12 he became a deck hand on boats in Haiti. When he was 18, he came to the United States and settled in Florida where he harvested fruit. He eventually relocated to New York and settled in a new city, Utica, with a new name, George Patterson. In 1961 he married the former Margaret Robinson. It was love at first sight and they were blessed to be one another’s best friend. Love and happiness was bountiful within their family and their Christian faith was steadfast. Margaret passed away in May of 2004. George was blessed with a second union when he married Frankie Mae Walton in Turks and Caicos Islands, a union of 14 years. In the 1970’s George became ordained and in 1972 he founded the Free in Christ Church located at the corner of Third Avenue and Mary Street. In 1995 he started the Free in Christ Community Center in the basement of the church, where young people could come and get help with their homework, play games and get karate lessons. He also opened up The Pit Soul Food Restaurant with his wife Margaret where you could get the best soul food in town. He was also a master guitar player, and in harmony with his desire to help those less fortunate, he began an inner city music program for children of all ages. He was a father to the fatherless and a generous, benevolent man of God. George was the Rescue Mission before it began to feed the hungry. He put the Lord’s work ahead of his own needs and family demands. He was a true role model, and his family and children admired and loved him. The life lessons he passed on to his loved ones will light their way, and his legacy will live on in the good deeds they do, and through his son, Pastor David Patterson in spreading the Glory of the Lord. George is survived by his wife, Frankie Mae; and his children and their families, Michael Robinson, Kenneth (Gloria) Robinson, Michell Patterson, Georgeen Patterson, Steve Patterson, Pastor David Patterson, Nanise Ervin, Deborah Pollard, George Patterson, and a special daughter Edwina Bowens. Always close to his heart was the memory of his son, Melvin Robinson, who preceded him on January 17, 2013. He also leaves his grandchildren, Michael, Carleta, Monica; Shakoiya, Keona, Kenya, Kenneth Jr., Tynnia, Kenasia, Kenisha, Serenity, Shyanna; Tyeda; Terrance; Tiffany; Stephanie; Matthew, Destiny, Tamya, Grace; Armani, Brandon, and Jehlani. He is also survived by Frankie Mae’s family, Jerry Walton, Gwen Walton, Sandra Walton, Jackie Walton, and Darryl Walton; and his many friends including Sam Morris, and Raymond Jackson. He was predeceased by his stepson, Larry Walton, and his best friend, Deacon Wright who passed in 2017. The family extends a special thank you to Michell, George, and Alex Pollard for going above and beyond in their care and love during Reverend George’s time of illness. Visitation will be held Friday from 5:00-8:00 at the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. A viewing will take place on Saturday between 11:00-12:00 noon at Greater Highway Deliverance Temple, 1705 Whitesboro St. followed by George’s Home Going and Celebration of Life officiated by Apostle Derrick Burrison. Interment will take place in New Forest Cemetery at the convenience of the family. Memorial contributions in Reverend George’s honor may be directed to the Free In Christ Pentecostal Church, Inc., 1104 Seymour Ave, Utica, NY 13501; envelopes will be available at the funeral home.

Rev. George F. Patterson

September 5, 1935 - February 16, 2018