Mary Patterson

On Tuesday, December 16, 2025, at her residence at Willow Ridge Assisted Living in Lynchburg, VA, God gently called one of His faithful servants home. Now, Mary rests peacefully in His loving arms.

Born on November 8, 1926, in Bedford County, as Mary Elizabeth Otey, she was the cherished daughter of the late Emmett D. and Elizabeth Otey. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband of more than 30 years, Robert T. Patterson; her sister, Christine Otey; and six brothers: James, Clayton, Frederick, Percy, Raymond, and Rev. Dr. Lorenza Otey.

Mary’s life was rooted in faith. At an early age, she professed her love for Christ, was baptized, and joined Sharon Baptist Church in Big Island, VA. Over the years, she faithfully served as a Sunday School teacher and church clerk, and was lovingly honored as the Mother of Sharon Missionary Baptist Church. This title reflected her devotion and care for her church family.

Education was Mary’s passion. She attended Bedford County Public Schools, graduated from Bedford County Training School, and continued her studies at Fayetteville Teachers College in North Carolina. Her teaching career began in Virginia at Olive Branch, Antioch Peaksville, Coleman Falls, and Sharon Schools. After marrying Robert, the couple moved to Washington, DC, where Mary taught gifted students in the DC Public School System until her retirement. Known for her high standards, she instilled discipline and pride in her students, checking fingernails daily and emphasizing cleanliness and good manners. This attention to detail carried through her life, even at family gatherings with her great-nieces and nephews.

Mary was also a trailblazer in service and leadership. She was the first Worthy Matron of Martha W. Otey Chapter 217, Order of the Eastern Star, Prince Hall Affiliated, and dedicated over 70 years to the organization. At her passing, she was a proud member of Cordelia Harris Chapter 223 in Madison Heights, VA.

Those who knew Mary will remember her unique expressions and unwavering faith. She introduced herself with a smile as “Mary O period Patterson, age xx,” and her hearty “Yeah!” signaled agreement. When asked for advice, her words often included scripture and her heartfelt desire: “I just want peace.” Mary loved music. That is, clapping, swaying, and singing with joy. She frequently requested her favorite hymn, Blessed Assurance, and delighted when visitors sang it to her liking. Her favorite scripture was Psalm 23, and she cherished the poem I Have Only Just a Minute, often quoted by her brother, Rev. Lorenza Otey.

Although Mary did not have children of her own, she embraced her nieces and nephews as her family. She leaves to cherish her memory: Ronnie (Joe Ann) Otey, Marilyn Otey, Gloria Otey, Rebecca Otey, Sammie Otey, Timothy (Rita) Otey, Sharon (Sal) Jefferson, Milton (Katina) Otey, L. Keith (Renate) Otey, Ricky (Adriene) Otey, Racheal Shirley (Leroy) Thomas, along with a host of great and great-great nieces and nephews, her church family, and dear friends, including her devoted friend, Lois Jones.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the staff of Runk & Pratt’s Willow Ridge Assisted Living and all who provided loving care to Mary O. Patterson. Her life was a testament to faith, service, and love—a legacy that will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.

A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, December 20, 2025, at 11 A.M. at Sharon Missionary Baptist Church (Big Island, Virginia) with  a visitation being held one hour prior. Interment will immediately follow the service at Antioch Missionary Baptist Church (Coleman Falls, Virginia). 

Tharp Funeral Home & Crematory, Lynchburg, is assisting the family.