Velma S. Duty

Velma S. Patterson Duty beloved mother, grandmother, and friend, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, November 4, 2025, at age 90. She was preceded in death by her mother, Irma Sylvis; husbands, James Patterson, and Charley Duty; son, Bobby Patterson; daughter-in-law, Jamie Patterson; siblings, Lucille Crutchfield, Fay Pate, and Mason Sylvis.

She is survived by sons, Terry "Randy" Patterson (Angela) and Danny Patterson (Debbie); grandchildren, Terri Mills (Brian), Lee Patterson, Derek Patterson, Danielle Moss (Daniel), Joseph Patterson (Kayla); great grandchildren, Troy Mills, Brynn Mills, Preston Patterson, Ellie Moss, Molly Jo Patterson, and Charley Patterson. She is also survived by daughter-in-law, Mary Ann Patterson; siblings, Lynn Sylvis (Sandra), Marie Williams and sister-in-law, Sandra Sylvis plus numerous nieces and nephews.

Born Velma Sue Sylvis on July 15, 1935, in Pegram, TN, she was the third of seven children. She chose a life of following Jesus and loved the Lord with an abiding faith; a legacy passed to her family. Velma was a devoted member of Donelson Church of Christ for more than 60 years, teaching elementary classes and the nursery, posting church attendance, cherishing her church family and serving faithfully throughout her life.

After her husband's death, Velma enrolled in the Metro General Hospital Nursing School in 1975 and graduated as an L.P.N. in 1977. She worked at General for several years. She then worked at Donelson Church of Christ - Heartland Ministry for several more years.

She was a talented seamstress, especially in quilting. Velma shared her faith through the church's quilting ministry, crafting countless quilts for family members and those facing physical or emotional hardship. Each stitch reflected her compassion and devotion, leaving behind a beautiful legacy of warmth and love.

She lovingly sewed delicate lace gowns for premature newborns at Ascension St. Thomas Hospital (Baptist) offering comfort and grace to grieving families through this quiet act of kindness. Over a 4-year period her gowns raised over $10,000 for March of Dimes - March for Babies and were donated to the NICU at Baptist. Once she could no longer sew the tiny gowns, she knitted hats for the homeless.

Known affectionately as "Granny," Velma delighted in her role as matriarch, attending family events, listening with care, and sharing her wit, wisdom, and famous chocolate pies. She loved being a grandmother and great grandmother.

Velma was truly one of a kind-steadfast in prayer, generous in spirit, and deeply devoted to her loved ones. Her legacy of faith, kindness, and love will continue to inspire all who knew her.

The family extends special thanks to the staff at McKendree Senior Living and Charter Senior Living for their care.

A private family service will be held with interment at Mt. Olivet Cemetery. A celebration of life is planned on Sunday, November 16,2025, at Donelson Church of Christ on Lebanon Road between 2:00 and 4:00 p.m.

If you wish to honor Velma's memory, donations may be made to

Donelson Church of Christ - Benevolence Ministry.