Martin "Pat" Pierce Patterson

Mr. Martin Pierce “Pat” Patterson, age 89, passed away peacefully in his home in Denham Springs, Louisiana, on September 10, 2025, surrounded in love by his wife and children. A beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend, Pat leaves behind a legacy of a lifetime of strength, service, and compassion that touched countless lives 

Born on July 8, 1936, Pat’s life was marked by dedication to his family, country, community, and faith. He served in the United States Coast Guard from 1957 to 1962 as a member of the military police. While stationed in Hawaii, he also pursued natural bodybuilding and won the title of Mr. Hawaiian Islands in 1961. This achievement marked the beginning of a lifelong commitment to physical fitness. Well into his later years, Pat remained a fixture at his local gym, where he inspired people of all ages with his discipline and vitality. 

In 1961, Pat began what would become a distinguished 30-year career with the Pensacola Police Department. Starting on foot patrol, he went on to serve on the motorcycle patrol unit, boat patrol unit, homicide department, TAC squad, and ultimately retired in 1991 as a supervising desk sergeant. Known affectionately by his colleagues as a “gentle giant”, Sergeant Patterson was admired for his calm demeanor and commanding presence. His ability to de-escalate tense situations with quiet strength became legendary among those who worked alongside him. 

Beyond his professional achievements, Pat was a man of deep faith. After converting to Catholicism, he became an active member of Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Denham Springs. He had a special devotion to the Blessed Mother and prayed the rosary faithfully throughout his life. His commitment to Eucharistic Adoration and his involvement with the St. Vincent de Paul Society and Knights of Columbus reflected his desire to serve others through both prayer and action. He generously donated his time and talents to support parish events, especially through his remarkable woodworking skills, crafting beautiful pieces that were auctioned at the annual church bazaar.

 A self-taught carpenter of exceptional talent, Pat created exquisite furniture and keepsakes that are cherished by many. Each piece was crafted with care and precision, true reflections of the love he poured into everything he did. Those fortunate enough to own something he built hold not only a fine example of craftmanship, but also a tangible reminder of his generous spirit. 

Pat is survived by his devoted wife of 61 years, Barbara “Bobbie” Fuentes Patterson; their three children, Lynette (Valerie) Anderson, Laura (David) Zak, and David (Michelle) Patterson; and seven granddaughters who brought him immense joy: Claire, Elena, Emma, Anna, Emily, Elizabeth, and Sabrina. He is also survived by his sister Linda Patterson Varnedoe; along with many beloved brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nieces, nephews, and extended family members. 

He was preceded in death by his mother Louise Patterson Long; father Lovic Pierce Patterson; and sister Patricia Patterson Stanley. 

Though strong in stature and spirit, Pat was known for his gentle heart and softspoken nature. He had an extraordinary gift of making others feel seen and valued- -- a quality that endeared him to all who knew him. His family would like to extend their sincere gratitude to those who cared for him during his final years and days, especially the compassionate staff at The Hospice of Baton Rouge, as well as his special friends at Sport-N-Center and MedCentris Wound Healing Institute in Denham Springs. Their kindness and love brought him so much comfort and joy. Special thanks also to his brothers-in-law Mike Fuentes and Ron Fuentes, who visited him every Monday and Friday, and his sister-in-law Kit Bourgeois. They were ever-present sources of comfort and aid to him, anticipating his needs and helping without being asked. Their love and support were invaluable. 

Pat’s life was one of quiet heroism, marked by service without fanfare, love without condition, and faith without wavering. His memory will be a source of strength and comfort to all who were blessed to know him. 

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Monday, September 15 at 12 pm, Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, 865 Hatchell Ln, Denham Springs, LA, with visitation from 10 am-12 pm at the church. Interment immediately following Mass will take place at the Seale Funeral Home cemetery, 1720 S Range Ave, Denham Springs. Pallbearers will be Ron Fuentes, Marty Sherlock, Howard Bourgeois, Clyde Godwin, David Zak, and Jason Caruso.