Thomas J. Patterson

Thomas Joseph Patterson, age 92, passed away peacefully on May 23, 2025. Born in Philadelphia on February 7, 1933, to Rachel Patterson (nee Wright) and Martin T. Patterson, Sr. He was the brother of the late Martin T., Jr. and Raymond C. Patterson. Thomas is survived by his loving wife of 69 years, Elaine F. (nee Novack), daughter Maryann Issertell (John), son Thomas J. Patterson (Lisa), and grandchildren Olivia Issertell, Meghan Patterson, and Thomas J. Patterson, Jr.
Thomas was a 1951 graduate of West Catholic High School where he was co-captain of the Track & Field Team and the Philadelphia City, Philadelphia Catholic League, and State Catholic pole vault champion. Thomas was also inducted into the West Catholic Athletic Hall of Fame. He was the Middle Atlantic Pole Vault Champion while at LaSalle College, AAU Pole Vault Champion while competing for Shanahan Track Club, and University of Penn Spiked Shoe Pole Vault Champion and Record Holder. Thomas was an honorably discharged veteran of the US Navy and served in Beirut during the 1950's Lebanon Crisis.
Thomas was a long-time CYO coach (track, basketball, & soccer) and athletic director, on the Philadelphia Archdiocese CYO Board of Directors, and head boys track coach at Academy Park HS (12 yrs). His dedication to community service included serving as tax collector for the Borough of Norwood in the 1980's, a third degree Knight in the Knights of Columbus, head usher at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Catholic Church, and supervisor of Delco Senior Games Track & Field Competitions. In his professional life Thomas was a sales manager for Sun Oil Co. and various automotive equipment companies, concluding with his own automotive shop and service station equipment supply and design company. He was an avid golfer and loved his trips to Myrtle Beach, SC. Thomas also took immense pleasure and pride in supporting and attending his children's and grandchildren's activities and sporting events.
Relatives and friends are invited to attend his Memorial Service on Tuesday from 10 AM until 11 AM at the Church of St. John Fisher, 4225 Chichester Ave., Boothwyn, PA followed by his Funeral mass at 11AM. Interment private.