Thomas Cole Patterson

1951 - 2025

Dr. Thomas Cole Patterson passed away peacefully at home on February 6, 2025, with his family by his side.

Born on December 7, 1951, in Selma, Alabama, to Reginald James Patterson and Mary Annette Logan Patterson, Tom spent his early childhood in Texas before moving to Memphis at the age of six. He attended White Station from elementary through high school before attending Vanderbilt University, where he met his wife, Margaret Campbell. The two shared 51 years of marriage.

After Vanderbilt, Tom attended the University of Tennessee College of Dentistry. He was deeply committed to his profession and cherished the relationships he built with his patients and colleagues. He served as President of the Memphis Dental Society and remained actively involved in the Tennessee Dental Association, always eager to give back to the field he loved.

Even after selling his practice, Tom remained deeply engaged in the field and took on a new role as a full-time Assistant Professor at the College of Dentistry. Teaching quickly became his new passion, and he poured his heart into mentoring students, investing in them as he had in every person who crossed his path. He cared deeply for them, and in return, they adored him.

Tom was a devoted member of First Baptist Church of Memphis, later a founding member of Trinity Baptist Church, and, in his later years, a member of Independent Presbyterian Church. His love for the Lord was evident in his unwavering commitment to serving others, both through his church and his profession. He dedicated his time and talents to Mid-South Mission of Mercy and the Church Health Center, using his expertise in dentistry to care for those in need. Always eager to share his faith and encourage others, Tom's generosity and devotion were evident in everything he did.

Tom's greatest joy was his family. He and Margaret were blessed with two children, Michael (Kristin) and Mary, whom he loved with all his heart. But perhaps nothing brought him more delight than being "Daddy Tom" to his grandchildren-Fields, George, and Alice Patterson, and Mae Cannon. His love for them knew no bounds, and he treasured every moment spent in their presence.

Tom found happiness on the golf course, surrounded by wonderful friends who let him be the center of attention, humored his jokes, and made sure he always had an audience-just the way he liked it.

He was preceded in death by his parents and is survived by his beloved siblings-his brother, Logan Patterson, and his sisters, Ann Cameron and Ginny Atkinson-along with his cherished nieces and nephews. His family will carry forward the warmth, humor, and love he so effortlessly shared.

A visitation will be held on Tuesday, February 25, at 9:00 a.m., followed by a service at 11:00 a.m. at Trinity Baptist Church in Cordova, TN.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Church Health Center.