Zelda Kay Patterson

Zelda Kay Patterson, 66, passed away Thursday, Jan. 1, 2026 after her final battle with cancer.
She was a native of Hiawassee, Ga. and the daughter of the late Paul and Estella Roach Patterson. Kay worked as an inspector in a clothing factory in her younger years before starting her own cleaning service. She made many friends with those she helped maintain a healthy and happy home. Most of all, Kay loved her family and spending time with them. She thoroughly enjoyed being a Nana. Kay also enjoyed shopping and was an avid NASCAR enthusiast, especially pulling for Tony Stewart.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Roy Free, and a brother, Ondas Brown.
She is survived by her two sons, Brandon and Derek Anderson, both of Hayesville; one brother Carl Patterson and wife, Martha; two sisters, Eulene Burrell and Gayla Shepherd, (Larry) all of Hayesville; and her grandchildren whom she loved dearly.
Funeral services were held at 2 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 6 at the Townson-Rose Funeral Home Chapel of Hayesville. Rev. Curtis Ledford officiated. Burial was at Bethel Harvest Cemetery. Pallbearers were Matt Smith, Adam Prather, Roger Spivey, Jeff Patterson, Mason Shepherd and Rickie Shepherd. Larry Shepherd and Dale Anderson will serve as honorary pallbearers.
The family received friends from 1-2 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 6 at the Townson-Rose Funeral Home Chapel of Hayesville.
Townson-Rose Funeral Home: townson-rose.com was in charge of all arrangements.