James Cecil Patterson passed away August 6th, 2024 at the age of 91. A south Florida native, born and raised in West Palm Beach, where he spent most of his life near the water. Devoted to serving God, unconditionally loving his family and pridefully defending our country.

From a young age the water called to him, his earliest mission was becoming a Sea Scout. Moving up from a scout but still in the water, his next mission began at the youthful age of 17 joining the US Navy. James served his country with great pride. A prestigious career extending 22 years, serving during some of our country's greatest feats. James proudly served during the Lebanon Crisis, was a member on five submarines as an electrician mate, a deep sea diver, as well as becoming a player on the Navy golf team. He spent the final years of his career with the Navy  as an Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) technician.

In addition to his remarkable adventures in the Navy, he was always hardworking and dedicated to achieving higher goals. James earned a Bachelors Degree in computer programming from Troy State University. He also spent time working in real estate and property management.

A courageous man, not afraid to do anything. James always loved a challenge, especially one that brought a new experience, a good laugh and made a great story for later. He had a mischievous and playful sense of humor that easily commanded a crowd. He never met a stranger. He also loved all animals, especially his dogs Chip and Coco. They went where he went!

A humble man that took pride in his life's achievements, but more than anything, he had the most pride in his family. A dedicated husband to the love of his life Marilyn, married 49 years. As his family grew, so did his heart, as he loved and treasured each of us dearly. A legendary father and grandfather that taught most of us how to swim, fish, boat, play golf, tennis and tell funny jokes. An honored and celebrated brother and friend that never shied from helping those in need, and always ready for a round of golf and a rum and coke! Despite the skills we all may have learned, he taught us so much more. James embodied being a good person, working hard for what you want, fighting for what you believe in and being present in life's moments so you are always ready for the next adventure, no matter what it may be. Loving his family and friends became his greatest mission in life.

He is preceded in death by his father James Patterson, mother Elizabeth Pelot, daughter Carolyn Ulery, and brother Ralph Patterson.

He is survived by his wife Marilyn; daughter Cathryn Oenbrink and her children, Nicholas (Rhianna) VanBurren, Holly (Chris) Willette, Sarah (Billy) Brescia, and Benjamin (Shelby) Oenbrink,  daughter Susan (Royce) Smith and their children,  Amber (Dennis) Dyke, Emily (Chris)Martinez, Kristy Smith, and Rusty (Melissa) Smith; son-in-law James Ulery and his children Thomas (Amanda) Ulery and Brian (Missy) Ulery, son Jeffrey Patterson, son Charles Patterson, step-daughter Anne Bedinger, step-daughter Kim Radcliffe, sister-in-law Mary Patterson, sister-in-law Sharon Rosecrans, brother-in-law Richard (Beth) Backus, and sister-in-law Linda (Barry) Rufo.

His Great Grandchildren, whom he loved dearly, include Caroline, Alexander, Theo, Dexter, and Felicity Ulery, Nicholas and Vestalyn Van Burren, Grayson and Skylar Willette, Trey and Bo Brescia, Lyra and Sage Oenbrink, Austin and Annabelle Dyke, Daniel Chandler, Deakin Hurt, Nina Guerra, Adalie and Nathan Martinez and Abigal and Amelia Smith.  He also had several special nieces, nephews, and cousins that he loved dearly.

Anyone wishing to donate in memory of Jim can donate to:

First United Methodist Church of Hobe Sound, 10100 SE Federal Hwy, Hobe Sound, FL 33455 Or to Alzheimer's.org or to a charity of your choice.

A celebration of life will be held at a future date.

Written in loving memory by our Granddaughter, Sarah Oenbrink.