James Earl Patterson

James (Jim) Earl Patterson passed away Sunday, March 15, 2026, at Baylor Scott & White - Hillcrest.

Services will be on Wednesday, March 18, 2026, at 2:00 pm at Wilkirson-Hatch-Bailey Funeral Home, with Rev. Billy Edwards officiating. Visitation will be at the funeral home at 1:00 pm prior to the service.

Jim was born on October 7, 1949, the son of Earl and Virginia Patterson. Jim was mentally (and physically) challenged, but he brought a whole lot of love to his family. As he grew up (and into adulthood), Jim went everywhere with his dad. He learned to take parts off of cars at his dad’s wrecking yard and later helped him dig for antique bottles. He also loved to fish and later played golf with his dad. He also enjoyed watching football and car races and listening to country music – especially Buck Owens and Merle Haggard. Though he was challenged mentally and physically, he did not let that hold him back from enjoying life with his family. He also taught his family a great deal about unconditional love – and he gave that even more than he received.

Jim was preceded in death by his father, Earl Patterson; his mother, Virginia Patterson Geist; and nephew, Bryan Mauritzen.

He is survived by his sister, Betty Mauritzen and husband, Mike; his brother, John Patterson and wife, Martina; nieces and nephews, Angela Werley and husband, Andrew; Stacey Stabell and husband, Doug; Cory Mauritzen and wife, Kristin; Suzanne Mauritzen; Brian Patterson and wife, Haley; and Jonathan Patterson and wife, Cait; and numerous great nieces and great nephews.

The family wishes to express their special thanks to Barbara White, his teacher at HOTI for many years, and the kind staff at Avir (Royal Manor) nursing home in Waco, Texas.

In lieu of flowers, those who wish may remember Jim with a gift to The Arc of McLennan County in Waco, Texas, or Friends for Life in Waco, Texas.

The family invites you to leave a message or memory of on our “Tribute Wall” at www.WHBfamily.com.