Steven Dale Patterson

Steve Patterson, age 66, of Athens, TN, passed away on Sunday, February 16, 2025, at Memorial Hospital, surrounded by his loving family after a long battle with cancer.

A beloved member of the McMinn County community, Steve dedicated much of his life to sports. A Diamond Club Baseball Inductee from McMinn Central, his athletic talents extended beyond the field. He earned the nickname "Legend" when he made a remarkable full-court basketball shot and the basketball was selected for display at the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame. Steve excelled in multiple sports, going on to play as a quarterback at Liberty University, where he made lifelong friends and continued to be involved with his Liberty Brotherhood. Later, he became known as "Coach" in the men's community, spending many years coaching his sons through sports in Ringgold, GA.

Beyond sports, Steve built an impressive career spanning 35+ years at Roper Corporation and GE. He was deeply committed to his community, actively serving in his church and leading fundraising efforts for the organizations American Heart Association and United Way.

An avid golfer, Steve found his way to the course whenever he could, but his greatest joy in life was time spent with his grandchildren—who meant more to him than anything. While most of his friends called him "Legend," the name he cherished most was "Papa." His kindness, leadership, and unwavering dedication to family and community will be remembered by all who knew him.

Steve was preceded in death by his mother, Wanda Patterson (December 23, 2024).

He is survived by his loving wife of 44 years, Debbie Patterson of Athens, TN; two sons and daughters-in-law, Tyler and Margaret Patterson of Athens, TN, and Andrew and Nikki Patterson of Ringgold, GA; his beloved grandchildren, Harlyn Drew, Ava, and Maddox Patterson; his father, H.L. Patterson of Athens, TN; two brothers and sisters-in-law, Phil and Pam Patterson of Ten Mile, TN and Rick and Tameca Patterson of Mocksville, NC; as well as several nieces and nephews.

A Celebration of Life service will be held at 2:00 PM on Saturday, February 22, 2025 at Fairview Baptist Church, with Rev. Jack Scallions officiating. The family will receive friends from 12:00 – 2:00 PM before the service.

For those unable to attend, condolences may be shared at https://www.laycock-hobbs.com/obituaries/steven-patterson

Laycock-Hobbs Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements.