Robert Eugene “Gene” Patterson, 87, husband of Shirley Huckabee Patterson, passed away peacefully on August 8, 2023 at Covenant Place.
The celebration of life for Mr. Patterson, 87, will be held at 3:00 p.m. on August 11, 2023, at Trinity United Methodist Church in Sumter with Rev. Joseph James officiating. The family will receive friends at the church in the Fellowship Hall following the service. The burial service will be private.
Gene was born July 3, 1936, in Bennettsville, South Carolina to the late Robert James Patterson and Josie Genes Patterson Roark.
He attended school in Bennettsville, South Carolina where he met his high school sweetheart and wife of 65 years, Shirley Patterson. After graduation, he began his college career at the Citadel where he was a member of the Tango company. During his time at the Citadel, he was known for his lighthearted humor and his notorious love for Pepsi which earned him the nickname “The Pepsi Cola Kid.” Gene graduated in 1958 with a Bachelor of Science degree and later enjoyed a great career at the National Bank of South Carolina serving his friends and customers.
In his free time, you could find him in the crowd at a sporting event, spending time with his grandchildren (especially at the Sumter County Fair) and traveling the world with his beloved wife Shirley. In addition to many destinations around the globe, he visited 49 states. Gene was the consummate volunteer, serving in countless roles during his 60 years as a member of Trinity United Methodist Church where he was instrumental in bringing the living Christmas Story to the church.
In addition, he served as President of the Wilson Hall Athletic Association, Co-pilot for the Evening Pilot Club and Pilot Club International, and volunteered with the Sumter Optimist Club, Crime Stoppers, and the Salvation Army. Gene served as Commander of the American Legion Post 15, where he was able to combine his love for baseball and serving others.
He is survived by his wife and sweetheart of 71 years – Shirley; daughter, Laura Lynn Luce and spouse William and their children, William and Avery of Greenville, SC. Gene was preceded in death by his grandson Robert Luce.
Memorials may be made to Trinity United Methodist Church, 226. W. Liberty Street, Sumter, SC 29150 or to Wilson Hall School, 520 Wilson Hall Road, Sumter, SC 29150.
Online condolences may be made at www.sumterfunerals.com
Elmore Hill McCreight Funeral Home & Crematory, 221 Broad Street, Sumter, is assisting the family (803) 775-9386.