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Joe Patten Obituary
RELATED: Public Memorial planned for Fox Theatre's Joe Patten
Read more on AJC.com
Memories and Condolences
for Joe Patten
123 Entries
July 30, 2019
Joe, I was in Architecture school at FAMU in Tallahassee in the mid '70s and we heard they wanted to demolish the Fox. We had a trip scheduled to visit Atlanta and the Buildings there for our studies. We decided to go early as a class and join the "Save the Fox" effort. We participated in the meeting around the Fox block and it worked.
I later moved to Atlanta and have lived there for over 35 years. I've been to many Fox events and have taken grandchildren to the ballet and seen many concerts, comedians and historic events. The natural "nite sky" with the stars in my favorite.
Thank You for all you did to take care of Mighty Moe.
J Mele - Roswell, Ga
Patricia " Betsy" White aka Battle
March 14, 2019
I had the pleasure of being around Joe when we were trying to Save The Fox. I poured coke and later became the bar manager. Joe was always lurking around the Fox taking care of something. He will be sorely missed.
P J
December 20, 2016
Condolences sorry for your loss and I hope it was natural causes. He looked so healthy like the older people in my family...they are such good people too and they know so much. I will miss the talks when they are gone, as Mr. Pattens family will most likely miss his too, since he had done so much in his lifetime. He was a trailblazer...God bless.
L. Johnson
October 16, 2016
I have only been to the Fox once so far. Thank you Joe for preserving it so I can take my child there now and in the future. Thank you for your service to the Fabulous Fox and to the great city of Atlanta. My God grant your family and loved ones peace.
Gone but certainly not forgotten....
Frank C
September 19, 2016
I do not know where to start I know the fox basically like the back of my hand I spent neumorous years basically growing up there ...save the fox, the phantom 3 rolls your name going on the plaque for such a well restoration...east point yorik my favorite German Shepard who once grabbed someone trying to break in between the grand ball room and your apartment the secret closet behind your book shelf in your office the 56 gullwing and various car projects you loved your Mercedes and such as much as the fox .I still have the brass fox medallion you gave me amongst other items I was what 6? Until 14 spending my moments on such things as sing alongs and the movie festivals man Brighton beach memoirs,the Wiz,the king and I ,I have Brenner's cuff links from his dressing room he forget ,man I was glad to learn the history of everything about the theatre jeez I even remember the one movie being filmed when Woody's was briefly there ,the sluggers wife I believe man the camaro ,the Egyptian ball room,the pipe room for the organs and the fiascoe of getting that heavy safe up into the apartment,the scroll playing piano the little organ for the apartment you bought wow it just keeps going on ......:(
Knox
August 20, 2016
What an amazing life story! Thank you for sharing in all our events at the Fox. We never met nor did I ever see you there, but I have looked for you at every visit. Just knowing you loved the Fox and called it home made me love it more. What a blessing you have been through the years to this iconic landmark and spokesman for those who loved it too! May the organs play for you now!
Jan Helton
June 8, 2016
So sorry to hear of his passing. Mighty Moe is an amazing organ. I always enjoyed hearing it played. Thanks to Joe for making that possible. My prayers are with the family. I grew up here and as a child spent many years growing up with the Fox Theater. Thank the Lord that Joe saved it from demolition.
Durwood Fincher
April 30, 2016
JOE WAS A DEAR FRIEND TO ALL. LIKE THE FOX, JOE WAS/IS A CLASS ACT!
C L
April 18, 2016
Please accept my condolences on your loss. May your memories comfort your heart; and God help your family during this time of sorrow. Isa.41:13
CJ Shank
April 13, 2016
What a remarkable man - His legacy in helping to restore this beautiful theatre will be remembered for generations of theatre goers for generations to come.
William A Harris Jr
April 13, 2016
At the age of five I was taken out of school to see a movie at The Fox. I heard Mighty Mo roar to life for the first time on that day. Now at 50 I have no recollection of what I learned at school the day before or after my visit, but I remember every second of my first trip to The Fox. It changed my life. Thank you Mr. Patten for your wonderful life and your dedication and devotion to saving and preserving the amazing and one of a kind Fabulous Fox. It is very much appreciated and your legacy.
Marge Avery
April 12, 2016
Thank you for contributing to my fond childhood memories of The Fox. What a wonderful example for others you were!
Marge Avery
Richard Horton
April 12, 2016
Today, April 12th is my 60th birthday and it is filled with happy memories of The Fox .
The Great Theater Organ Mr.Patten Saved Is the Centerpiece--Its Heart.
My Mother and I had many fond memories there until she passed in 1994, and today I will be 'At The Fox' in my Minds Eye.
Rest in Peace Mr.Patten and Thank You So Very Much !!!
Sincerely,
Richard Horton
April 12, 2016
Pat DF
April 11, 2016
Please your kind heart, Joe Patten! Your 89 years were lived fully ... and just the way you wanted it to be. You will always live in our hearts as the famous 'Phantom of Fox Theater'! Thank you for all your kindness and helping others so much.
Sandy Peterson Thomas
April 11, 2016
Joe lived across the street from me in Newton Estates on Oakhill. He was such a nice man. I have kept up with him through the news over the years and one could not help but think of him when you thought of The Fox. Prayers to all who were close to this wonderful man.
Carmela Pattillo
April 11, 2016
Thank God for Mr. Patten. He made all of my experiences at the Fox possible. Your service and dedication will continue to touch lives for generations. Your example of commitment to service, I don't even have the words to express other than a humble thank you for all you have done. My deepest condolences to the Patten family and the Fox Theater staff.
Don Schoeps
April 11, 2016
Joe touched the lives of so many of us! The music goes on! We are all blessed!
Graham Davenport
April 11, 2016
It was both a blessing and a privilege to have known Joe Patten. While small in stature, he was a giant among men, accomplishing things most of us only dream of. We knew Joe for over 30 years though our common interest in cars, but clearly his first love was the Fox Theatre. I never tired of hearing his many wonderful stories of the Fox, especially watching his face light up every time he talked about it. Joe was a true treasure and he left a legacy that will shine on forever. We'll miss you Joe, but we'll never forget you. Sincerest condolences to the Patten family and the great team that keep the Fox Theatre going. God Bless!
Gwen F.
April 10, 2016
The Fox Theatre will never be the same without its Phantom. Rest in peace, Joe. I'll do my best to keep your story alive.
Gwen F., Fox Theatre Tour Guide
Katrina Davis
April 10, 2016
The Fox will never be the same. Thank You Joe for your dedication and determination to keep the Fox going. You will be forever missed.
Warren Short
April 10, 2016
Condolences to the Patten family and to the Fox Theatre family.
April 10, 2016
Rest In Peace Joe.
We owe you many thanks for your great care of the Fox.
Georgia Mills
April 10, 2016
Rest in Peace Joe. You will be missed by many!
Karen Noonan
April 10, 2016
It was an honor and privileged to meet Joe Patten during a family visit to Atlanta in 1999. His efforts to save the incomparable Fox Theater and its signature theater organ will be his lasting legacy. Those of us who treasure the country's remaining Movie Palaces are always indebted to this quietly powerful force in historic preservation. Rest well, Mr. Patten. You've earned your place in history.
Karen Colizzi Noonan
Past President, Theatre Historical Society of America
Kathy Dodson Wierenga
April 9, 2016
Joe how will the Fox run without you? I started volunteering at the Fox about 1975 and ended up working in the front office until 1982. During that time I was fortunate enough to see everyone from the Rolling Stones to Prince Charles but the person I always think of first is Joe. It has been a few years since I last talked to Joe on the phone and he honored me by ending the call telling me he missed seeing me and that he loved me. Coming from Joe that was quit an honor, one that I will always remember and hold dear to my heart. Rest in peace my friend.
Sarah Cook
April 9, 2016
A Life Well Lived!!!Mr.Pattens legacy will live forever!!!!Thank You Sir!!!!!
Eddy Romero
April 9, 2016
Joe, Thanks for the Memories and for being a friend for so many years while I was a Floor Captain. May you Rest in Peace. Sincerely, Eddy
Betsy Battle White
April 9, 2016
Back in the mid 1970's when a friend asked me to join him at the Fox Theatre to help Save it who would know I would ever meet Joe. I would be in the lobby pouring Coca Cola and Joe would walk by with a smile. The next minute later he would be down by his beloved Mighty Moe and you never knew how he moved so fast! Any time something needed Love, Attention, or Care in the Fox Joe would be there. You will be GREATLY MISSED! RIP
Jean Potter
April 9, 2016
He did so much for the Fox theater. I hope his work will be preserved. May he rest in peace.
Judith Neely
April 9, 2016
I have enjoyed coming to the Fabulous Fox for many years and enjoyed listening to "Mighty Moe". Thank you for your hard work and dedication. You will be missed, but your legacy will be remembered. R.I.P.
April 9, 2016
Thanks for saving the fox Joe you never got the credit you deserved. I remember the early early lean years when we were having concerts while you were fixing the toilets. You will be missed. Tom King fox police security .
Summer 2015 Lunch @ Joe's
Kim King
April 9, 2016
Crystal Turner
April 9, 2016
May you find eternal peace in heaven.. Rest now kind sir, you deserve it!! God bless you and your family and friends.
Carmen Walker
April 9, 2016
Thanks Joe for all ur care of Atlantas beautiful landmark -- The FOX Theater! ♥
Ann Wheaton
April 9, 2016
Thank you Joe for the many years of watching over the Fox. May you rest in peace knowing we appreciate what you have done in saving the Fox.
Wayman Cook
April 9, 2016
R.I.p.Mr.Patten.A Great Man!!!!The Fox and City of Atlanta treasure!!!Enjoy your organs in Heaven!!!!
April 9, 2016
All of Atlanta natives and newcomers alike will miss you!
Ka pang Lo
April 8, 2016
Joe Patton you legency will live forever. Rest in peace. You will be miss!
April 8, 2016
My family and I knew Joe for many years. We met him at the Fox where each of us worked from time to another. When my wife said her farewells Joe made a point to attend the going away party. I always enjoyed talking to him about his cars and automotive engineering. He was a the kindest man I think that I have ever met.
Charles Moore
Former Front of House Fox employee
Rebecca Clive
April 8, 2016
R.I.P. and thank you for all you've done.
Mike and Cindy Wheeler
April 8, 2016
RIP Thank you for your service and dedication.
Robert Taylor
April 8, 2016
You should also be called Mr. Atlanta after all you did for the Fox and Atlanta. RIP
joe gambill
April 8, 2016
you were a joy to know. so many memories - most revolving around cars - come to mind. my life is better for knowing you.
rest in peace my friend.
Jan P
April 8, 2016
What a fantastic soul that honored our city. God rest your soul.
Penny Burroughs
April 8, 2016
God Bless you. Thank you for what you have
given to the folks of Atlanta. All of you
hard work and love for the Fox.
You will be missed and remember.
Don Hayek
April 8, 2016
To a wonderful servant of the Theatre Pipe Organ world, I wish for you "Peace in his heavenly embrace".
Kate
April 8, 2016
RIP Thank you for all you have done for our city. You will be missed.
April 8, 2016
Joe worked for me at the S&H X-Ray Co. until he chose early retirement at the age of 55 in the year 1972. Joe was our Atlanta X-Ray salesman and spent many late nights during those later years working on the pipe organ at the Fox. I well remember a Company Christmas Party in the Egyptian Ballroom followed by the Nutcracker Ballet .Joe was always a good friend.We first met in the parking lot at Batty Hospital in Rome GA. when he was an X-Ray Salesman for Westinghouse during the 50's . Lewis Brannon
Dom Santillo
April 8, 2016
Thanks to the life work of this wonderful man. He truly saved a wonderful piece of history and has kept the arts alive in Atlanta. My deepest sympathies to the family
Steven McDaniel
April 8, 2016
Farewell Mr. Patten and thanks for your dedicated service to Save & Restore the FABULOUS FOX THEATRE. Our paths will no longer cross (as I do my work) within the walls of the theatre, but your memory will always be present.
It was an honor to be able to call you my Friend over these last 40+ years. Now there's one additional star in the ceiling of the beloved theatre you SAVED. Thank you.
Eugene Patronis
April 8, 2016
Joe Patten was a true friend and a valued colleague. He is sorely missed.
Lois Toryk
April 8, 2016
God Bless you Mr. Patten. You are a treasure and Atlanta was the richer for your presence. Thank you for your dedication to The FOX and for leading the initiative to preserve this wonderful institution for those who love the FOX and for those who will come to love it in the future. Your efforts will always be greatly appreciated. R.I.P. Phantom of the FOX.
Brian Carr
April 8, 2016
Midtown Atlanta lost a resident and a community treasure. Thanks for being part of our community for all these years, Joe. We will miss you dearly.
From your friends at Midtown Alliance.
Jim R
April 8, 2016
Truly will be missed as a person and an idealist. Knew what he wanted and what was most important and worked hard to be a friend to all. Always wondered if an old friend from the 70's, Rex Patten, who worked at The Fox (and played in Cruise-O-Matic) was a relative. Someone needs to organize a Might Mo sing along to commemorate his unique spirit!
God Bless!
Delores Carr
April 8, 2016
R.I.P MR.Joe
Donna Boss
April 8, 2016
Please don't even think about ridding the Fox of this treasure. His home should kept as is and in remembrance of knowing one person could ever have that love and dedication to a treasure like The Fox.
Sally Harley
April 8, 2016
Mr.joe patten was a very nice and kind man,it is not many people in the world like he was, he was the master mind person of the fox theatre very smart and brilliant person who would also help any body , he will be greatly missed and everyone loved him he was really a great man,the family is in my prayers.
Francis Karycinski
April 8, 2016
Thanks for being instrumental in saving this wonderful theater. You were truly a treasure and wil be missed.
Sylvia Bailey
April 8, 2016
Thank you Mr. Patten. My grandfather and great grandfather helped build the Fox. My grandmother was there for the premier show with her graduating class. I have many fond memories at the Fox. Thank you for preserving the legacy for future generations.
Cindora and Katelyn Creasman
April 8, 2016
You will be sadly missed. We have followed you over the years and you were such a beautiful soul.Rest in Peace.
Sherri Paterson
April 8, 2016
What a wonderful man and legacy. Thanks, Joe for helping save our beloved Fox!! Many blessings to your family.
Louis Bodem
April 8, 2016
Rest in peace. I shall always remember following the bouncing ball, while singing alone with that massive organ. What a true treasure.
Linda Marie Johnson
April 8, 2016
Rest in peace, dear Joe! I hear the organ in heaven could use refurbishing!
karen armstrong
April 8, 2016
May God be with You Thank you for. All you did for the Fox and Atlanta....
Billy Eller
April 8, 2016
Sorry we never met. I will enjoy telling your story for years to come. R.I.P.
Billy Eller, Fox Tour Guide.
Chris Frazier
April 8, 2016
Joe was dedicated to his passion and the preservation of the Fox. He will be missed to say the least.
- Chris Frazier
Janice Sikes Rogers
April 8, 2016
A kind gentleman is now at rest. As a member of the board of the Atlanta Preservation Center I met Mr. Patton years ago as we fought to save the Fox. Peace and Blessings to his family and friends.
April 8, 2016
I met Joe at an M-100 car meet in 1999 in Endicott NY and Woxall PA . What a fine gentleman
Hugh Creighton
Halifax Nova Scotia Canada
Elaine Price-te Meij
April 8, 2016
Thanks Mr. Patten for your dedicated service to The Fox Theatre and their beautiful pipe organ. R.I.P. and God Bless You and Hold You In His Loving Arms.
Doris
April 8, 2016
Farewell,Fox phantom!
RIP Joe...I know your an angel watching over the Fox Theatre now and smiling at all who enters,I know Atlanta will miss you and the Fox as well.
Let you angels wings fly you over the Fox forever more.
You will be forever missed and loved.
April 8, 2016
thank you Mr. Joe for saving the Fox for all generations to enjoy this marvelous building with much character. I am a native atlantan and I've enjoyed events here many times. RIP dear one and thank you again for all you did for to save the Fox for all of us...............
Dora Ivey Sumner, Cleveland, Georgia
Bill Campbell
April 8, 2016
Bill Campbell, LATOS Board Member
Janice Gilstrap
April 8, 2016
Rest in peace, Mr. Patten. Thank you for saving one of Atlanta's greatest treasures. The citizens of Georgia, especially metro, owe you our everlasting gratitude. I hope there is a pipe organ with your name on it in Heaven.
Gary Oldknow
April 8, 2016
It was an honor to have known you. The times we spoke was delightful. I'll never forget.
Joe Burkhart
April 8, 2016
It was great working with you back in the days of S & H X Ray. Rest in peace.
JOB WELL DONE!!!!!
Patrick Kelly
April 8, 2016
I'm sure Joe Patten was welcomed into PARADISE with OPEN ARMS!!! R.I.H. Mr. Joe Patten.....
Noel Rivers-Bulkeley, Chairman
April 8, 2016
Joe was a member of the Rolls-Royce Owners' Club and a fixture at the club's meets until age and health issues limited his involvement. He was a beloved member of the Southeast Region, and he will be missed by all who knew him. A truly unique and fascinating man
Eva Ghazi
April 8, 2016
Condolences to the family and to Fox.
connie pierce
April 8, 2016
Atlanta lost a treasure last night when The Phantom passed.
As a child growing up in College Park/Newton Estates, Joe was a just a neighbor. He tolerated us kids quite well as we played in the street in front of his house and sold him Girl Scout cookies. No one realized the profound impact that Joe would have on Atlanta and especially the Fox Theatre. To us, he was just Joe.
Rest in peace Phantom. Your spirit will live on protecting your beloved Moller and Fox forever.
Sheryl Moore
April 8, 2016
The Fox & Joe Patten will always be in my heart, especially the years I worked there (1996 to 2000). Joe always took the time to stop by my office and say hello, talk about cars and the Fox. My most favorite memory was standing in the lobby one early morning before a children's performance with Wil Young, Joe comes walking down the staircase in PJ's, slippers and his bathrobe. Wil turns to me and says "well he is at home". Love you always Joe and be at rest in the hands of God.
Sheryl and Chuck Moore
Former Director of Volunteer Services and Events Staff
Kissimmee, Fl.
Crystal Blackwell
April 8, 2016
Joe,
You were larger than life! Thank you for your dedication to preserving The Fox. You have given Atlanta something to enjoy for generations to come. You will be missed, my friend!
Donnett Johnson
April 8, 2016
Thanks for making it possible for my children to have enjoyed the Nutcracker every year until they went off to college. Now I continue to enjoy many fine performances with family and friends. May you rest eternally in peace.
Steve G.
April 8, 2016
Thanks Joe for being the champion of the Fox. Happy trails.
Wally Roper
April 8, 2016
Thank you for preserving not only one of the greatest musical instruments of all time, but a true landmark theatre...Rest well.
April 8, 2016
God took his angel to fix his great organ rip sir
Dan Dalton
April 8, 2016
Many years ago, I was a decorator for many events being held in the Fox ballroom and salon. I would frequently see Mr. Patten in the halls and had the pleasure of meeting him on more than one occasion. He was such an inspiration to me and so many others. Thank you Mr. Patten, you will be missed.
Gail Rodencal
April 8, 2016
Mr. Joe,
It was a pleasure and an honor to know you when I worked at the Fox.
Rest in peace.
Joanne Taylor
April 8, 2016
Rest in Peace Joe. Atlanta will miss you.
Morgan Galloway
April 8, 2016
Phantom? Maybe. Brilliant? Undeniably. Here's to your talent, your spunk, and your heart. I will miss you Joe; a mastermind, a hero, a prankster, a friend.
The organ plays because you were here.
Velma Jeter
April 8, 2016
Rest in Eternal Peace.
Velma Jeter
April 8, 2016
What a legacy this great and dedicated man leaves behind. No one could ever fill his shoes. R.I. P Mr.Patten.
Peggy Rowland
April 8, 2016
Farewell, Fox phantom!
Angela Durden
April 8, 2016
Good night, dear sir. May your rest be as sweet as your life.
Virginia Woody
April 8, 2016
My prayers are with the family. If it had not been for Mr. Patten we wouldn't have the Fox today. It is a place that everyone needs to experience and thanks to Mr. Patten that can happen.
Caroline Sheen
April 8, 2016
It was a real honour to meet Joe and to learn about the history of the wonderful Fox theatre, from someone who was so influential in saving its fortunes. I played Mary Poppins there in 2010 and have such fond memories of that wonderful theatre. RIP Joe. Xxx
Linda Brackett
April 8, 2016
Thank you for your love of music, Thank you for your love of the Fox! Rest in Peace Joe.
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