Mr. Vernon L. Patterson

UTICA – Mr. Vernon L. Patterson, age 48, passed away unexpectedly on Wednesday, November 17, 2021, with his family who were by his side. Vernon was also affectionately known as "Ace" or "VP." Vernon was born on May 30, 1973, in Utica, NY, the son of Jesse and Vernita Patterson. He was a graduate of Thomas R. Proctor High School, where he played football and basketball. Vernon worked as a Deckhand at the Erie Canal. Vernon was very active in his community, a mentor for many young people. He was a football coach for Pop Warner and the Utica Bulldogs, also volunteering his time as part of the street team for Hoops and Dreams, providing security for large community events. Vernon was a great man who wore many hats, a skilled carpenter, restauranteur, and powerlifter. Vernon had many other wonderful qualities and was well known for his warm heart and blinging smile. Vernon is survived by his parents, Jesse and Vernita Patterson; his children, Vernon Jr., Verron, Vershawn, Zamiree, Vaniah, Avianna, and Verdeisha; sisters, Jessica, twin Veronica (Jameen), Mary, Honesty, Rakiesha, and Aliya; brothers, Jesse, Gregory, and John; grandmothers, Marva Adams, and Magelene McRae; aunts, Laverne Porter, and Joyce Adams; favorite cousins, Sandy, and Vernetta; godmother, Elizabeth Patterson-Moyer; godbrother, Jamal Moyer; best friends, Robert Blackshear, Dennis Ford, Tone Washington, Eddie (Poppy), and Walter Peak; and a host of many family members and friends. Vernon was predeceased by his brother, Edward Patterson; his great-grandmother, Dorothy Jones; aunt, Carolyn Gadsen; uncle, Ivory Adams; and cousins, Odie Shealey, Mary Linen, John Linen, Sr., Katrina Adams, and James Adams, Sr. Visitation for Vernon’s family and friends will be held on Saturday, November 27, 2021, from 11:00 – 1:00 at Peter Spencer UAME Church, 841 Bleecker St., Utica. Vernon’s Home Going Service and Celebration of Life will commence at 1:00 at the church immediately upon conclusion of the visitation. All recommended CDC protocols will be implemented at the church. Interment will take place in Forest Hill Cemetery at the convenience of the family. A complete obituary will follow.

Mr. Vernon L. Patterson

May 30, 1973 - November 17, 2021