Ellen I. Patterson

1986 - 2021

It is with great sadness that we share that Ellen Isabel Patterson passed away on Saturday, August 14th in Santa Fe, New Mexico. Ellen had a loving and gracious spirit. She enhanced the lives of so many people through her caring nature and ability to connect with anyone. A cherished daughter, sister, auntie, niece, cousin and friend, she was adored by everyone she met. She was beautiful, in every form and facet. Ellen left an immeasurable impression on the souls she touched. She was kind, genuine, thoughtful, full of joy and light. She spread all she had to those around her. Ellen was born on August 30, 1986, in Hartford, Conn. She is survived by her parents, Richard and Cindy Patterson of Old Saybrook, Conn., her twin brother Jeffrey Patterson of Newtown, Conn., her sister Molly Shea (with husband, Neil, and daughter, Sylvie) of Topsfield, Mass., her partner James Stake of Santa Fe, N.M., and many loving family members and friends. Ellen grew up in Middle Haddam and Old Saybrook. She graduated from The Williams School and St. Lawrence University, before receiving master's degrees in Art Education from Columbia University's Teachers College and in Art Therapy and Integrative Counseling from Southwestern College. Ellen taught at the Greenwich Country Day School and The Boston Higashi School prior to moving to Santa Fe. A licensed counselor, she worked for a large clinic before starting her own private therapy practice. Ellen was often sought out because of her special ability to help young people. As well as being a skilled golfer, skier and tennis player, Ellen was an aspiring paddler, musician, author, gardener, and she approached any opportunity for new adventure with enthusiasm and a huge smile. When Ellen was a young girl she was asked by her pediatrician what was the first thing she put on in the morning, and she answered, "my smile!" She loved animals, particularly her dog, Arlo, who was constantly by her side. A strong and vivacious spirit, Ellen spent her free time in nature, hiking, camping, taking photos, and walking with friends-regardless of the weather. We will carry her in our hearts, in our laughter, in our memories, in her artwork, and in the places she loved. A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m., on August 27th, at The First Church of Christ in Old Saybrook. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in memory of Ellen to The New Mexico Children's Foundation at www.nmchildren.org or P.O. Box 8182, Santa Fe, NM 87504. For additional details about the service, reception, and COVID-19 protocols, please visit www.ellenpatterson.muchloved.com