Perry Hal Patterson

CARBONDALE - Perry Hal Patterson, 84, passed away at home on Tuesday, Aug. 26, 2025, surrounded by his loving family.

Perry was born on April 4, 1941, to Hal Raymond and Bessie Marie (Cummins) Patterson in Athensville. He married Susan Mary Switzer on June 18, 1966, in Murphysboro.

Perry grew up in the small farming community at Saunemin. After graduating high school, he served his country in the Air Force from 1961 to1965. He then attended Southern Illinois University Carbondale, where he earned an accounting degree. He met his future wife at SIUC and began a marriage that lasted 59 wonderful years.

His role as a supportive husband and partner to wife, Susan, was evenly matched by his role as a father. When daughters Jennifer Hazel and Katy Marie were born, Perry exemplified a loving, funny and thoughtful Dad whose kindness and care made his whole family feel special.

He later earned a master's in rehabilitation administration and spent many years at the Illinois Guardianship and Advocacy Commission, from which he retired. His career was devoted to and centered around, making certain that adults with disabilities received the help they needed.

When his grandchildren Owen and Noah were born, he was delighted. Becoming "Papa" came naturally to him - he listened, he guided, and always cheered them on. He was a dedicated Cardinals and Salukis fan and loved a competitive game of croquet in the back yard. Spending time outside, both at work and at play, was central to his retired life.

Perry was a member of Murphysboro United Methodist Church for almost 50 years, devoting his time, energy, and expertise to a number of projects and committees.

Perry is survived by his wife, Susan Mary; daughter, Jennifer Hazel Patterson of Murphysboro; daughter, Katy Marie and son-in-law Steve Keller of Saint Charles, Missouri; grandsons, Owen Christopher and Noah Perry Keller; sister, Irene Marconnet of Longmont, Colorado; sister, Mary Ellen Swanson of Glendale, Arizona; brother-in-law, Edward Marconnet of Wauwatosa, Wisconson; sister-in-law, Sharon Patterson of Porterville, California; and many dear nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Hal and Marie Patterson; brother, Randall Patterson; sister, Ilene Marconnet; brother-in-law, Bob Marconnet; and cousin, Darrell Bartz.

A celebration of Perry's life will begin with visitation from 9 to 11 a.m., followed by the service Saturday, Sept. 6, 2025, at the United Methodist Church in Murphysboro, with Pastor Michelle Parker-Clark officiating. Inurnment will take place at Dutch Ridge Cemetery immediately afterward. A luncheon will take place at the church after the inurnment.

Memorial donations can be made to the USO or the Murphysboro United Methodist Church.

Meredith Funeral Home in Carbondale is assisting the family with arrangements.

To leave a story or memory of Perry, visit www.meredithfh.com.