Cecil Raymond Patterson

Cecil Raymond Patterson, age 73 passed away at his home in Gulfport on Friday October 25, 2013 after his courageous battle with mesothelioma lung cancer.
He is preceded in death by his parents, Virdie and Ras Patterson, two infant sons, four sisters, and four brothers.
Survivors include his loving wife of over fifty years, Patricia Alana Patterson; three children and their spouses, R. Shayne Patterson and Peggy, Robin R. Cushman and Michael, David R. Patterson and Kimberly; ten grandchildren, Eddie Ray III, Seth, Micah, Aaron, Amy, Sarah, Brandon, Lisa, David Jr., and Jackson; five great grandchildren, Taylor, Joshua, Zachary, Rayleigh, and Eddie Ray IV; two brothers, Dan Patterson and Billy Patterson; two sisters Beatrice Sanford and Ella Webb; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and special friends.
Cecil was born March 20, 1940 in Moselle, MS. He was a long time resident of Gulfport where he ran his business, Patco Steel Buildings for over 40 years. He was responsible for many building projects all along the coast. He served in the United States Navy from 1957-61. He graduated from Gulf Coast Baptist Institute in 1977 where he received his Bachelor's degree in theology while pastor at New Hope Baptist Church in McNeil, MS. He not only loved reading God's word but enjoyed sharing it, doing so in the jail ministry at Harrison County. He was interim pastor at O'Neal Road Baptist Church and more recently a member of First Baptist Church of Gulfport. Some of Cecil's favorite activities were trout fishing and floundering at Cat, Freemason, and Chandeleur Islands. He loved football and was a long time New Orleans Saints fan. Cecil loved spending time with his family and friends and never met a stranger. He was always willing to lend a helping a hand and was a shining example for us all. He was loved by many and will be greatly missed.
Visitation will be held on Sunday, October 27, 2013, at RIEMANN FAMILY FUNERAL HOME, 11280 Three Rivers Road, Gulfport, from 2:00-5:00 p.m.
Funeral services will be held on Monday, October 28, 2013, at Shelton Baptist Church, Moselle, MS at 11:00 a.m. Friends may visit one hour prior at the church.
Burial will follow at Shelton Baptist Church Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers the family requests donations be made to the American Cancer Society, the USO or Shelton Baptist Church, 2274 Monroe Rd, Moselle, MS 39459.
Tributes may be offered at www.riemannfamily.com.