USMC (Ret.) MSgt. Floyd Patterson

USMC (Ret.) MSgt. Floyd Patterson, age 53, of Charlotte, North Carolina, passed away on Sunday, March 21, 2010, in the comfort and privacy of his home with his loving family by his side. Born in Utica on November 18, 1956, Floyd was the son of the late Daniel J., Sr., and WillieLue (Lumpkin) Patterson. He was raised and educated locally and was a graduate of Utica Free Academy. From July of 1978 to August of 2004, Floyd answered a true calling to serve his country with The Few. The Proud. The Marines. His 26-year career allowed him to see the world and meet his current fiance and partner in life, Denise Crosby, who was also an enlisted marine; Floyd was an honest, fun-loving companion and a great father to his children. He was a respected provider, protector, and patriarch to his loved ones. Upon retiring from his military career, Floyd worked as a truck driver for various companies. His excellent work ethic and love of travel made him highly competent in his vocation. Affectionately called Pat by his friends, he was blessed with the attributes of a natural leader and was the neighborhood Mr. Fix-It. He derived fun and excitement from fast cars and big trucks. He was very mechanically inclined, and even as a child, he could fix or build just about anything. During his youth, he enjoyed the activities at the Boys & Girls Club. He was a member of the Fraternal Order of Masons, and while residing in North Carolina, he joined the Veterans of Foreign Wars and the Fraternal Order of the Police. Floyd is survived by his fiance, Denise Crosby; his daughters, Demetria Patterson, Latoya Hynes and Phyllis Gary, all of Utica; his sons, Travis Patterson of Charlotte, NC, and Michael MJ Crosby of Houston, TX; and his seven grandchildren. Survivors also include his sisters, Patricia Patterson, Willie Lou Patterson, Elizabeth A. Patterson-Moyer and Cynthia R. Patterson, all of Utica; his brothers and sister-in-law, Daniel Patterson, Jr., of Rome, Oscar Patterson of Utica, Booker and Debra Patterson of Liverpool, Elmer Prince of Utica, Tony Woods of VA, Freddy Pete of VA, and Melvin Pete of Utica; his sisters and brother-in-law, Tisha Prince of MA, Patricia Pete of Utica, Joyce Pete of Utica, Clynell Pete-Gary of Utica, and Tina and Tim Pete-Coleman of Utica; numerous nieces, nephews, with special mention of his nephew, USMC Sgt. Shinard Patterson, great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins, and aunt, Nancy McClendon of GA. In addition, he leaves Denises family; his father-in-law, Bennie Howard of the Bronx, NY; his sisters-in-law, Angela Rivera of MD, and Barbara Bostic of GA; and his brother-in-law, Bennie Howard, Jr., of New York City. Floyd was also favored by many friends, especially the Awesome Four, Robert Smitty Smith, Billy Johnson BJ, and Nate Sanchious Stick. He was predeceased by his brothers, Samuel Patterson and Cleave Prince; his sister, Lois Wilcox; and his mother-in-law, Earline Howard. The family extends gratitude to the personnel of Hospice & Palliative Care Charlotte Region in North Carolina for the additional and comprehensive care rendered to Floyd, the staff of the Presbyterian Hospital for their compassion and guidance, and the A.T.F. Charlotte Field Division for all the support given to the family. Visitation will be held Saturday (tomorrow) from 11:00-12:00 at St. Pauls Baptist Church, 219 Leah Street. Floyds Home Going Celebration with Military Honors will commence Saturday at 12:00 noon at the church, immediately upon conclusion of visitation, with Rev. Robert Rassberry officiating. Interment will take place in Forest Hill Cemetery. Arrangements have been entrusted to the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. "Semper Fi"

USMC (Ret.) MSgt. Floyd Patterson

November 18, 1956 - March 21, 2010