Mr. Thomas Ray Patterson (66) ascended to eternal peace on May 15, 2025, at St. Mary’s Health care, leaving behind a legacy of love, kindness, and compassion.

“Ray,” as he was affectionately known, was born on May 25, 1958, in Salisbury, North Carolina, Rowan County, to Rayford and Lorene McCutchen Patterson. Mr. Patterson was educated at Utica Free Academy in Utica, New York, where he laid the foundation for a life of purpose and meaning.

Mr. Patterson was renowned for his tireless work ethic, which began with his entrepreneurial venture as a detail shop owner in Quantico, Prince William County, Virginia. He was also a skilled horse groomer, and his passion for roller skating, muscle cars, music, and movies.

Ray’s heart was overflowing with kindness, and he had a unique gift for turning strangers into friends. His infectious smile and warm demeanor drew people to him, and he left an indelible mark on the lives of all who knew him.

Ray was preceded in death by his parents, Rayford and Jessie Mae Patterson (stepmother); Lorene McCutchen Cecil (maternal mother); three brothers, Nathaniel Wayne, John Calhoun Patterson, and Billy C. Johnson; and one nephew, Cory Ricks.

Yet, even in death, Ray’s legacy lives on through his two children, Tonya Graham, Concord, North Carolina, and Thomas Traglia, Whitestone, New York; his grandchildren, Tynaiya, Le’Nijel, Alexander and one great-grandchild, Jedidiah; one sister, Cheryl Victoria Patterson, La Plata, Maryland; one brother, Eric Patterson (Angela), Clay, New York; one aunt, Willie Mary Davis, Winston-Salem, North Carolina; niece, Cherie Johnson-Foster (Joseph); nephews, Elijah Patterson, and Isaiah Patterson; and many cousins, other relatives, and friends.

While there will be no funeral arrangements, the family takes comfort in the knowledge that Ray’s spirit will continue to inspire and uplift all who knew him. The family wishes to express their heartfelt gratitude for the outpouring of love, support, and condolences during this difficult time.

Thank you for being a part of Ray’s journey. His memory will be a blessing to all who knew him.