Paula Patterson

1975 - 2016

Dr. Paula Nicole "Nikki" Shoemake-Patterson, 40, passed away suddenly on Wednesday, June 1, 2016 during childbirth.

Born on September 21, 1975, Nikki was always a very driven young lady, deciding during grade school that she would one day become a physician. She graduated with honors from Tupelo High School in 1994, and then received a Bachelor's degree in Microbiology from Mississippi State University in 1998. Fulfilling her life-long dream, she graduated with the class of 2003 from the University of Mississippi Medical School. Upon completion of surgical residency at St. Raphael Hospital in New Haven, CT, she joined the staff at Oktibbeha County Hospital where she became a well-respected medical colleague. In 2014, Dr. Shoemake-Patterson earned the distinction of becoming a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons. Throughout all of her professional achievements, she remained devoted to her calling in life, taking care of others.

In addition to her accomplished career as a physician, Nikki was a loving wife, mother, daughter and dear friend to many. She was an avid Mississippi State fan, holding season tickets for various Bulldog teams. Her interests varied widely as she was able to "talk sports" with as much intellect as any of the guys, which she often did with her dad, husband and sons. Nonetheless, she loved to take advantage of a spa day with her mom, daughters and friends at every given opportunity. Well known for her down to earth personality, she always took time to laugh and enjoy those around her. Nikki's dedication to her family was evident in all aspects of her daily life. She was able to gracefully juggle both a full time career and an active home, and was overjoyed at the news of adding another daughter to their family. She loved her family and friends dearly, and all those who knew Nikki well understand that the quality of her existence far exceeds the quantity of time in which she was here on this earth.

Nikki is survived by her husband, Jason Patterson; daughters, Grace Patterson and Aubrey Caroline Patterson; step-children, Morgan, Cody, and Johnathan Patterson, all of Starkville; mother, June Alford of Madison; father, Paul Shoemake of Bruce; brother, Blake Alford (Taj) of Mendenhall; grandmother, Laneita Murphree of Bruce; father and mother-in-law, Bubba and Kay Patterson of Terry; sister-in-law Renee Lewis (Justin) of Cumming, Georgia; two nieces, Maddie and Laney Lewis; a host of aunts, uncles and cousins.

She was preceded in death by her maternal grandfather, Thomas E. Murphree; paternal grandparents, Wilburn "Bill" Shoemake and Grace Shoemake.

Pallbearers will be Cody Patterson, Johnathan Patterson, Billy Trimble, Mike Shoemake, Joel Murphree, and Richard Murphree. Honorary pallbearers will be UMC Medical School class of 2003 and the OCH medical staff.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, June 9 from 5-9 pm at First Baptist Church in Starkville, followed by The Celebration of Life Service for Dr. Shoemake-Patterson on Friday, June 10 at 11:00 am. Graveside services will follow at Memorial Gardens Park.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Batson Children's Hospital.

You can go online and sign guest register www.welchfuneralhomes.com