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Longtime Democratic activist Pat Patton dies
By Jim Morrill
[email protected]
Posted: Thursday, Sep. 20, 2012
Pat Patton, one of North Carolina's most loyal, feisty and blunt-spoken Democrats, died Thursday, two weeks after watching the Democratic National Convention wrap up in her adopted hometown.
She died at 94 from the effects of a stroke, according to her daughter, Pamela Terry.
Patton remained active until the end, attending a Democratic Women's Club meeting last week. She was, says state Rep. Tricia Cotham, "the life of the Democratic Party."
Patton held official roles in the Mecklenburg County party, once serving as acting chair. She'd been a national convention delegate as well as leader of a Democratic women's group.
But it was in an unofficial role that she made her mark. She was the party's go-to person, the one who kept its machinery greased and the first one candidates sought out.
"If you were running for statewide office and you went to Mecklenburg County, you went to see Pat Patton right off," says former four-term Gov. Jim Hunt. "I did every time I ran."
No one in the county, adds Charlotte Mayor Anthony Foxx, "gave more of her time, energy and passion for Democratic elected officials."
"If she called on you," he says, "you always knew it was important and you did what she asked."
When businessman Cameron Harris first became county party chair in the late 1980s, he tapped Patton to run the day-to-day affairs. She recruited candidates, nurtured precinct organizations and even directed Harris' financial contributions.
"As long as I was involved in Democratic politics she made sure we gave to the right people," Harris says. "She knew who we could count on and who we couldn't."
To fellow Democrats, Patton was straight-talking and candid. She once said of some party volunteers: "They're unacceptable in my book, I'll be honest with you." To Republicans, she could be bitingly partisan.
In 2004, at 84, she was a delegate to the 2004 Democratic convention in Boston when she spotted a familiar face in the ladies' room.
"You look familiar," she told the blond woman. "Are you famous? Have I seen you on TV?"
"You wouldn't like me," the woman replied. "I'm a Republican."
Later on the convention floor, it dawned on Patton that the other woman was none other than Ann Coulter, the conservative pundit and author. So she trekked off to a TV booth and tracked her down.
"You're right, I don't like you," she told Coulter, calling her a word that rhymes with witch. "You need to get a life."
Patton, a Mississippi native, got her start in politics early.
Her father had been a local school superintendent and judge. As a child, she campaigned with him, handing out leaflets and going to county fairs. She married Jack Patton, an industrial chemist whose job took them to Alabama and Tennessee before coming back to a small town on the Mississippi coast.
A new job brought the family to Charlotte in 1955.
Despite her childhood involvement in politics, Patton traced her activism to another episode.
When she went to enroll her son Jimmy in school in Mississippi, she found 57 students jammed into his second-grade class. She appealed to the school board for another school. No money, she was told. So she started a petition drive for a bond referendum, which won overwhelmingly.
"It was the most fun I ever had, beating that school board," she once said. "I was taught that if something needed to be done, all you had to do was get one person exercised about it. That's what politics is all about – improving the world."
Two weeks ago, Patton was glued to her TV until late at night watching President Obama and other Democrats on the last night of the convention.
"She so looked forward to Charlotte hosting the DNC," Foxx says. "I'm glad she was given enough time to see it through."
A memorial service will be held at 2 p.m. Friday at Myers Park United Methodist Church. A reception will follow in Jubilee Hall.
Morrill: 704-358-5059
37 Entries
I loved her and she was an amazing lady! I enjoyed her company and we had alot of laughs together.
January 10, 2014
I'm sorry that I only just learned about your passing Gammy.. I feel like a very very lucky lady to have met you in such a critical stage of my development and life. I will never forget your Ann Coulter story- it was my favorite and I loved hearing Scotter repeat the story to others.. I didn't have any grand parents of my own, and having you as mine for 4 years was a blessing.. I will never forget you and I'm glad you are somewhere better than this political mess of a world now. :)
Nadia Badr Cempre
May 8, 2013
I had the privilege of working side by side with Pat for many years at Discovery Place. She was an institution unto itself. When she "retired" from the museum , Pat continued to be a strong advocate for what she believed. Pam, your Mother truly was a remarkable lady!
Carole Merriam
October 13, 2012
"God is for us a refuge and strength." Psalms 46:1. I am so sorry for your loss.
Linda Johnson
October 13, 2012
RIP Pat.
It was truly a pleasure to know her. My husband and I met Pat at Democratic HQ when it was on South Blvd at Park. We went to see how we could volunteer for the Clinton campaign and she got us hooked. Pat was an wonderful lady and a good friend. Charlotte and Mecklenburg county will miss her.
Carol Diebolt
October 10, 2012
I wish I had the opportunity to meet and get to know this wonderful lady!
Rosa Little
October 8, 2012
Although I was not acquainted with Ms.Patton, I'm sorry to hear of her passing and would like to express my condolences to the family. "may the God who supplies endurance and comfort..." bring your family peace during this time. Rom.15:5
M. Williams
October 6, 2012
To the family: Be courageous and strong. When your strength is gone and endurance tested. Do not suffer shock or be terrified for God is with you wherever you go. (Joshua 1:9) With deepest sympathy.
October 6, 2012
Pam,
In the coming days, weeks and months, may the love and support of family and friends be comforting to you. I am so sorry for your loss.
Beth Deyerle
September 30, 2012
How do we say goodbye to a legend? Pat was a political legend not only in Charlotte, but throughout the state. There cannot be any political conversations started or ended without a quote from Lady Patton, as I liked to call her. When I became the President of the DWMC, I was quickly told that Pat was one of the cornerstones of the organization. I was a little intimidated, but I quickly learned the Presidency of the DWMC was not a job, but a mission mandated by the purpose to ensure the election of Democrats to public office and the promotion of women as leaders. There will be an empty chair at the political negotiating table where the future of Democracy is protected; Lady Patton's Chair.
Thank you, Pat for all you did for Democrats and the DWMC.
Cozzie Watkins, Past DWMC President (2010-2011)
Cozzie Watkins
September 28, 2012
I originally met Pat thru the Women's Political Caucus, a non-partisan organization promoting the election of qualified women - well, if anyone was qualified, surely it was Pat! What a big heart she had... I believe she and Susan Burgess must now be sharing their joy over the DNC in Charlotte... she touched many lives here, of all parties, and her voice will be missed by many... Heather Fisk Myers
September 27, 2012
My condolences to Pat's family who she loved so very dearly. Please know how much I will miss Pat and how much she touched my life. I was truly blessed to have her as a friend and a mentor. I have such wonderful memories of her that I will treasure always. Pat touched everyone that met her and her legacy will always be with us. We have lost a true star among us.
Laura Blake
September 27, 2012
Pat Patton will be missed. There just aren't enough strong willed, fiesty, passionate, won't take no for an answer people in this world. I am grateful for all of her hard work and committment to making this world a better place.
Nancy Quinn
September 26, 2012
To The Patton Family:
Keeping You Close in Thoughts and Prayers.
RIP; Mrs. Patton
Barbara A. Ratliff & Family
September 26, 2012
Pat was a tremendous woman that will never be forgotten. She was an advocate, a friend and a dedicated Democrat above all. I am a better person for having known her and am honored to have volunteered with her years ago in Charlotte. My sincere condolences go to her family and friends. She was a truly grand lady.
Cynthia Fore
September 25, 2012
Pat was courageous. She lived what she believed and urged others to do so as well. Her wise counsel and unwavering support will be missed by Democratic candidates of all ages. I am proud to have known her.
Nancy Norelli
September 24, 2012
I became fond of Pat Patton during Erskine Bowles' first campaign for US Senate. She shot straight from the hip and expected the same from you. I will miss her and our chats. When God made Pat Patton, he broke the mold!
David Belton
September 24, 2012
Ms Pat was a fiesty, outspoken and truly funny woman, she warmed the hearts of so many people, she loved sports of all kinds and we enjoyed so much being apart of her. I personally loved going to work everyday and taking care of her, not that she needed much. She was a definite fighter and like most of you I am pleased she got to see the DNC come to charlotte, she smiled wide whenever it was mentioned. She truly touched my life and will be sadly missed . To Pam and the family I pray that you will make it through this time so tough but I know Ms Pat is now an angel looking down on all of us, protecting those she loves the most. We have surly lost a wonderful woman and I will miss her very much.
Sissy Reed
September 23, 2012
We the Democratic Women of Charlotte have lost a crown jewel as well as the MCDP. Pat truly believed ln the Democratic Party and what it stands for. She will be sadly missed but most important of all we will miss her spirt, her fire, and her desire to see all Democrats succeed. Good bye my friend.
Pamela Coles
September 22, 2012
To Miss Pat's Family, Please know how beloved Miss Pat will always be! She truly knew how to bring life to the Party and will be so missed. Her hard work, her incisive wit, her quick and accurate assessments were truly appreciated and will be treasured memories. She once gave me a Christmas angel...but she truly was an angel in so many lives, including mine. I am so very sorry to be away next Friday, but will be thinking of you all,
With prayers and sympathy,
Nancy (and Nick) Carter
Nancy Carter
September 22, 2012
I am so sorry to hear of Ms. Pat's passing but I am honored and privileged to have known her and had her support. I had just seen her the night before and gave her a kiss at the Democratic Women meeting. I will continue to pray for the family. Ms. Pat was a gift to all of us.
Kimberly Best-Staton
September 22, 2012
I consider myself blessed to have known Pat and to consider her a true friend. I'll forever be grateful for her guidance and faith and friendship every step of the way. She will be missed, but so much of what she has done for our community will forever be with us. The Patton family remains in my thoughts and prayers.
Larry Kissell
September 21, 2012
Pat - There are few who come close to your level of dedication and passion for the ideals we as Democrats fight for. You gave so much time, advice, and support to so many candidates. Your strength will be missed in our party. Your family has so much to be proud of. Thank you for the privilege of your friendship and wisdom.
Maria Smithson
September 21, 2012
Oh Pat, I have been out of Charlotte for years and have missed you. To Pat's family, you know she was the best and I was glad to be under her tutelage for some years. She taught me a lot. Love you Pat.
Terry Gaar
September 21, 2012
To Pat's family, I want to extend my condolences! Pat and I have worked together for many years in politics. We have managed hopefully to make our communities a better place in which to live through her dedication. She leaves quite a legacy which one will never forget. Although we have had a few head butts, I have a tremendous respect for her. But that was what politics was about in order to bring about better solutions. Pat loved her politics! Pat you are in a peaceful place now so I must say to you, a job well done! Shirley Wiggins, Gaston County
September 21, 2012
My heartfelt condolences to all of Pat's family. As her friend for many years, I treasure the memories I have of her, and keep them close to me now at this time. You as a family have such a wonderful legacy. In your sadness you can celebrate her life.
Mollie Davis
Mollie Davis
September 21, 2012
Pat, I didn't know you well, but I loved you every time I saw you. You are irreplaceable.
Linda Brooks
September 21, 2012
My condolence to Pat`s family for which she was so proud of and she most certainly was a fiesty lady in a very good way. I had the privilage of being her hair stylist for quite a few years and always enjoyed her visits.
Ruth Pappamihiel.
ruth pappamihiel
September 21, 2012
While the light might be dimmer tonight, the light Pat brought into our community will never be diminished. I can hear her now, "quit your sadness, dry your eyes, and go elect Democrats!" Our responsibility to Pat and her memory is huge. Her example is a legacy to us all.
John Crowell
September 20, 2012
Angela savage
September 20, 2012
Mrs.Patton it was great working for you as your care giver .I and me son will miss you dearly. Can't say nothing but good things about you!!
Angela Savage
September 20, 2012
I really enjoyed talking to Pat at DWMC meetings and functions. She was so full of life. I am sorry to hear of her passing.
Janet Wojcik
September 20, 2012
We miss you Greats but are so much better for having you for as long as we did. There aren't words to express what you meant to me.
Brandon Patton
September 20, 2012
Pat was unique and never to be forgotten. Her stamina and activity up to the very end was amazing. I regret I will be out of state at the time of her memorial service. Mimi Vollum
September 20, 2012
Andy Weibley
September 20, 2012
Pat was a wonderful, caring and dynamic woman who was a mentor of women and an advocate for good causes. Charlotte and North Carolina will miss her. My condolences to her family.
Mary Klenz
September 20, 2012
Pat you will be missed especially at the Democratic Women's Christmas Party!
Craig Seman
September 20, 2012
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