James Terrance Patterson

In Loving Memory of

James Terrance Patterson

5/05/1949 - 2/25/2026

It is with heavy hearts and profound love that we share the peacefull passing of James Terrance Patterson, 76, of San Antonio, Texas, surrounded by his family, on Wednesday, February 25, 2026.

James, who was known to most as "Terry," was born on May 5, 1949, in Fort Meade, MD, to James and Louise (Poole) Patterson. He graduated from Satellite High School in Florida in 1967 and, three months after turning eighteen, enlisted in the United States Marine Corps in August of that same year. Terry served in the Vietnam War from 1968 to 1969, earning multiple medals for his bravery and service. He later reenlisted in the Marine Corps in 1972, serving several more years before returning to civilian life.

In 1982, he married the love of his life, September Dawn (Schwab) Patterson, with whom he shared 43 years of marriage.

Terry later became a co-founder of the Alamo Area Vietnam Veterans, dedicating himself to supporting fellow veterans who had served their country. He worked tirelessly to help establish the Vietnam Memorial in San Antonio depicting Hill 881 at Khe Sanh. Through numerous efforts, including organizing a well-known memorial march and dedication ceremony in 1986, Terry played an important role in bringing recognition to the sacrifices made by those who served. The monument held special meaning for Terry, as it memorializes the fierce fighting he engaged in during the 77-day Siege of Khe Sanh, one of the most significant battles of the Vietnam War.

Terry went on to master the craft of carpentry. He eventually founded a successful business, Old Fashioned Carpentry, which was later honored by the Mississippi Historical Society for his restoration work on historic homes following Hurricane Katrina.

James Terrance Patterson lived a life defined by service, craftsmanship, and devotion to his family. Those that knew him, remember him for his constant optimism and unwavering sense of humor. He was a generous man who gave without recognition, because giving was his simple way of showing love. He gave freely to family, friends and anyone in need of kindness. He was a successful businessman, a devoted husband, and the kind of father anyone would hope to have. Terry will be remembered for his strength of character, his loyalty to his friends, and the quiet, self-sacrificial pride that he took in the life that he built for his family.

He is survived by his wife, September, his 4 children, Ashlei (Patterson) Deason, Aubrei (Patterson) Werner, Kodey Patterson (Allie), Korei (Patterson) Teer (Lucas), and 6 grandchildren, Abagayle, Rayce, Amberly, Coleson, Elodie, Riley, his 7 siblings, Brenda (Patterson) Young (Sam), David Patterson (Cathy), Kenneth Patterson (Karen), Ginger (Patterson) Kokal (Michael), Larry Head (Michelle), Cheryl (Head) Graybeal Safford (Donald), Michael Head (Sharon).

Memorial Service held March 18th, 2026, at Fort Sam Houston Cemetery, San Antonio, Texas, at 2:45pm. Celebration of Life held immediately following at 1072 Gettysburg Dr., Schertz, TX 78154 from the hours of 4:30pm-6:30pm.