Donald Lynn Patterson

Donald Lynn Patterson, 78, of Morganton, passed away on November 7, 2022, after a period of declining health.

Born in Smithfield, he was the son of the late Lynn Clifford Patterson and Beulah Small Patterson of Hiddenite. Don was a long-time resident of Morganton and his larger-than-life personality was well-known and beloved in the community.
Don began his early career as a soldier, then MP in the US Army, serving in Vietnam, to be followed by a career in law enforcement. Don retired as a sergeant with the North Carolina Highway Patrol after 30 years of service. For most of his career and post-retirement years, Don was active in a variety of organizations supporting law enforcement and veterans affairs (DAV, VFW, SEANC) as well as an active member of the Catawba Valley Masonic Lodge #217.

Don loved spending time in the North Carolina mountains and on the coast. He was a collector of many things and could teach a master class in delivering the punchline to a joke. Don was a great friend to so many and he enjoyed his many active roles in the community over the years. He beamed with pride when he spoke of his favorite role as father and granddaddy to his girls.

He is survived by his wife of 57 years, Alva Jean Patterson; daughters, Julie Patterson Broombaugh and husband Andrew of Concord, and Leslie Patterson Mull and husband Travis of Morganton; as well as his three beloved granddaughters, Clementine Broombaugh, Evelyn Broombaugh, and Kaiden Mull. Additionally, he is survived by his sister, Helen Jones and husband Ron of Florida; sister-in-law, Connie Patterson of Hiddenite; and numerous nieces, nephews, and extended family.

In addition to his parents, Don was preceded in death by his brother, Frank Patterson of Hiddenite.

The family will receive friends from 12 to 2 p.m., Monday, November 14, 2022, at Sossoman Funeral Home. The graveside service will follow at 2:30 p.m. at Burke Memorial Park with Rev. Ed Stephenson officiating.

Honors will be provided by the NC National Guard, Caldwell County Veterans Honor Guard, NC Highway Patrol, and Catawba Valley Masonic Lodge #217.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Disabled American Veterans (DAV).

Sossoman Funeral Home and Crematory Center is assisting the family with the arrangements.

Condolences may be sent to the family by visiting www.sossomanfh.com.