Roger Preston Patrick

CLAXTON: It is with deep and heartfelt sadness that at 11:45 on January 10, 2026, we say goodbye to a beloved father, grandfather, and guiding presence — a man whose quiet strength, steady love, and unwavering support shaped the lives of all who knew him. Roger Preston Patrick, age 83, was a man of gentle wisdom and calm resolve, someone whose presence brought a sense of grounding and peace. He believed deeply in family, lived with dignity, and moved through the world with kindness and humility. Those fortunate enough to know him felt valued simply by being in his company. He had a deep, abiding love for the Florida Keys and the Everglades, where he spent countless hours with family, creating memories we will carry for a lifetime. Those landscapes brought him peace and reflected the best parts of who he was: steady, humble, deeply rooted in nature, and appreciative of life’s simple joys. Roger will be remembered not only for his unwavering devotion to his family, but for the kindness, dignity, and calm strength with which he moved through the world. He was the kind of person whose presence made you feel grounded, safe, and valued — a rare soul who made life better simply by being in it. His legacy lives on in all of us who were shaped by his example, uplifted by his spirit, and blessed to have been loved by him. Born on September 10, 1942, to Dan Grady Patrick and Alma Lena Brook Patrick, Roger Preston Patrick lived a life marked by dedication, service, and integrity. A proud veteran, he served as an Airman First Class in the United States Air Force from 1960 to 1964, continuing his commitment in the inactive reserves until 1966. During his military service, he embodied the discipline, loyalty, and quiet courage that would define him throughout his life. After leaving active duty, he began a long and successful 34-year career with Southern Bell, where he earned the respect, admiration, and friendship of colleagues who recognized his strong work ethic and steadfast character.

Roger was preceded in death by his parents, Dan and Alma Lena Patrick; his sister, Christine Patrick McCullough, and her husband, Gilbert McCullough; his brother, John Grady Patrick, and his wife, Patricia Ferguson Patrick; and his beloved wife, Peggy Jo Dyess Patrick, with whom he shared a life rooted in love and devotion.

He is lovingly survived by his daughter, Tracy Patrick Taylor, and her husband, Jeremiah Taylor; his son, Ryan Patrick; and his cherished grandchildren, Victoria Contreras and her husband, Charles Albo, Alexander Contreras, and Ian Taylor. He also leaves behind a large and devoted extended family of nieces, nephews, cousins, great-nieces, great-nephews, great-great-nieces, and a great-great-nephew — all of whom held a special place in his heart and will continue to honor his memory. Like the waters of the Keys and the quiet expanse of the Everglades that shaped him, Roger’s presence flows on gently and endlessly — calm, enduring, and forever free. And so, in the gentle tides he loved so deeply, he returns: carried by the current, kissed by the sunlight, and reunited with those who went before him, at one with the ocean and the rhythms that brought him peace. In those cherished places, where sky meets water and stillness holds meaning, his spirit rests: steady, grounded, and serene. Though we say goodbye, he remains with us — in the quiet strength he taught, the love he gave so freely, and the memories that will guide us forward.

Mellie NeSmith Funeral Home in charge of arrangements

“Our Family Serving Your Family”

Since 1917

(912) 739-3338

www.nesmithfuneralhome.com