Howard Ray Patterson

 Howard Ray Patterson, 87, of Sanford, North Carolina, passed away peacefully on June 14, 2026, in Greensboro, North Carolina.

Known to family and friends simply as Ray, he was born on February 5, 1939, in Carthage, North Carolina, to the late Lacey Hiram Patterson and Juanita Bell Patterson. Raised in a sharecropping family, Ray learned the value of hard work at an early age, a lesson that guided him throughout his life.

Ray proudly served two years in the United States Army Military Police Corps before beginning a long career in the textile industry. He spent decades managing sewing plants and earned the respect of coworkers and friends through his dedication and strong work ethic.

Ray was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Martha Dickens Patterson, in 1999; his brothers, L.H., Charles, Reggie, and James Patterson; and his sisters, Lorraine Jackson and Doris Purvis.

He is survived by his children, David Patterson (Jennifer) and Heather Ponzi (Joey); grandchildren, Collin and Liam Patterson, Cayman Patterson, and Olivia and Charlie Sasser; and his sister, Clara Kelly.

A devoted husband, loving father, proud grandfather, and loyal friend, Ray found joy in gardening and spent endless hours making his yard and landscaping the envy of the neighborhood. An avid sunbather, he never missed an opportunity to enjoy a day at the beach, and his legendary sweet tooth was known by all who loved him. He will be remembered for his kindness, perseverance, generous spirit, and deep love for his family.

Visitation will be held Friday, June 19, 2026 from 5:00 PM until 7:00 PM at Bridges-Cameron Funeral Home in Sanford. Funeral services will be held Saturday, June 20, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at First Presbyterian Church of Sanford with Rev. Rick Martindale and Rev. Greg Jenks officiating.  Burial will follow in Buffalo Cemetery in Sanford.

His family will forever cherish his memory and the example of a life defined by hard work, love, and devotion to those he held dear.       

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