James "Jim" Patterson

Reverend James Patterson

1931 - 2025

Reverend James Patterson, 93, passed away peacefully on May 16, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of service, compassion, and community leadership that touched countless lives.

Born to James Nial and Callie Baker Patterson on a farm in Ohio, Jim graduated from the University of Ohio with a pre-med degree before serving as a Captain in the Air Force during the Vietnam War. After his military service, he spent 14 years in pharmaceutical sales with Eli Lilly.

He met his wife Nancy Bett in a singles group at the Trinity United Methodist Church in Berkeley CA, where Nancy attended college. They married in 1964 and shared 60 years of devoted partnership.

In 1963, answering a calling to ministry, Jim earned his Bachelor of Divinity degree at Pacific School of Religion. His pastoral journey led him to serve congregations in Tracyton, WA and Salem, OR, before establishing deep roots in Durham, CA, where he ministered for over 30 years. Upon retirement, he and Nancy joined the Aldersgate United Methodist Church in Chico.

Throughout his 30-year ministry in Durham, Jim became a pillar of the community. He founded the Durham Community Christmas Tree Lighting, a cherished tradition that continued for three decades. As a dedicated Rotarian since 1973, he served twice as club president and became the first president to be named a Paul Harris Fellow. His community service initiatives included the Putney Street renovation project, which improved safety around Durham schools with new curbs and sidewalks.

Jim was honored as the Durham Parade and Picnic Parade Marshal in 1990, worked extensively with the Salvation Army, served as chaplain to Enloe and local hospitals, served as a counselor in Victorious Ministry Through Christ, and was a founding director of the Durham Cemetery Preservation Association.

Beyond his formal roles, Jim will be remembered for his countless visits to living rooms, hospital rooms, nursing homes, and churches, where his calm, gentle presence provided solace and comfort to those in need.

Jim was engaged and present in conversations with everyone. He took genuine interest in his family and friends' lives, from major milestones to everyday moments. Nothing shared with Jim was insignificant to him. It all mattered.

Routine-oriented, consistent, and sharp as a tack, Jim was often found consulting his yellow legal pad with his daily agenda: scriptures, coffee, crosswords, and praying for friends on his long prayer list. His enthusiasm for Ohio State football was a favorite topic.

He is survived by Nancy and their family: John, Christy, Grace, Joseph, Grant and Claire Patterson; Susan Patterson; Daniel, Briana, Megan and Ella Patterson; and Anne, Mark, Miles and Henry Montgomery.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to Aldersgate United Methodist Church, Durham Community United Methodist Church, the Durham Cemetery Preservation Association, Durham Rotary Foundation, or the Christian ministry of your choice.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, May 31, at 10:00 A.M. at Aldersgate United Methodist Church of Chico.