Harry David Patterson

Harry David Patterson, 90, of Atlanta, GA returned to his Heavenly Home, with God, on Thursday, March 20, 2025 at the Heritage Hospice Palliative Care in Marietta, GA. He heard our voices giving comfort and quoting God’s Words up until the time his soul was released.

Harry was born on November 28, 1934 in Monmouth, IL. He was the son of Edward and Pauline (Young) Patterson. He was raised and educated in Monmouth and graduated from Monmouth High School in 1953. Harry's athletic talent was well known, and until the day he returned to God, baseball remained his greatest passion. Many who saw him play believed that if the scouts had been there to witness his pitching and skill on the field, he could have been among the best in professional baseball—something he often spoke about. His love for the game carried over into his role as a highly respected umpire, a position he held until he could no longer run. With years of playing experience and a true passion for the sport, Harry became one of the best, bringing knowledge, fairness, and dedication to every game he officiated.

Harry Patterson and Mollie (Wilson) Patterson were married on November 23, 1969, by H. Henry Walker, Minister of the Gospel at Allen Chapel Church at Galesburg, IL. They celebrated their 56th wedding anniversary, cherishing their love and time together. It was never long enough.

Harry worked at Galesburg’s Gates Rubber Company, retiring after 33 years. Retirement never suited Harry, so not long after he retired, he obtained his certification to work as a security officer by graduating from the Allied Barton Security Service by exceeding the minimum training requirements for unarmed security personnel as set forth by the Georgia Board of Private Detective and Security Agencies. His last position was at Kroger’s stores.

Surviving Harry are his wife, Mollie, his daughter Theresa (Akbar) Majeed of Philadelphia, PA; his baby sister, Sharon Patterson of Monmouth, IL; his nieces Kimberleigh (Michael Grant, Sr.) Patterson-Nair of Monmouth, IL; Kelia Patterson of Omaha, NE; Kenia (Darick) Jones of Woodbridge, VA; Isis Randoph-McCree of Bellevue, WA; Djuana Lucas of Peoria, IL; Shala Lucas of Springfield, MO; Kendra Patterson of Galesburg, IL; Tonya Wallace of Galesburg, IL; and Shase Lacey of Rockford, Illinois; his nephews Keith Patterson of Monmouth, IL; Michael E. Kelley of Chino Hills, CA; Lewis J. Kelley of Manchester, CT; Pierrie Patterson of Galesburg, IL; Tyler Patterson of Rantoul, IL; Lonnie D. Brown of Galesburg, IL; Tyler Patterson of Lake Forest, CA; and Garrick (Jacqueline) Randoph of Monmouth, IL. Harry also had many great nieces and nephews as well as great-great nieces and nephews.

Harry was preceded in death by his parents, four brothers and five sisters.

The Chaplin at Heritage Hospice, his wife Mollie, and his daughter Theresa comforted Harry with God’s Words from Revelation 21:4,” God promises that in the new heaven and earth, there will be "no more death, sorrow, crying, or pain," and there will be an end to suffering and a restoration of paradise”. Harry’s peaceful face and eyes told us he received comfort until he crossed over at the end. He left this world listening to God’s Words of comfort.

Harry was a devoted family man, always deeply involved in his daughter Theresa’s activities. Whether it was her softball and basketball games, tennis matches, or GHS band programs, he was there—watching, cheering, and supporting from the sidelines. Theresa could always count on seeing him in the stands, helping her practice her band steps, and encouraging her in everything she pursued. One of his proudest moments was attending Theresa’s Father-Daughter Banquet at Spelman College, where his joy and pride were evident in the many photos capturing his wide and handsome smile.

Above all, Harry cherished time with family. He lived for the annual Young, Patterson, and Randolph Family Reunion held in Monmouth, looking forward to reconnecting with relatives, lifelong friends, and the newest additions to the family. Each year brought new faces and more love to share, and Harry embraced it all.

Harry was always there when someone needed a helping hand—whether family, friend, or neighbor. He never hesitated to offer support, wisdom, or a steady presence, making a lasting impact on those fortunate enough to know him. His neighbors especially cherished him, often saying “he was the best”—always looking out for those around him and bringing people together with his warmth and honesty.

Harry never held his tongue—he spoke his mind with honesty and conviction, a trait that made him both respected and deeply cherished. Whether with family, neighbors, or the many people who became his "adopted" family, his straightforward nature was always appreciated. People valued his directness because it came from a place of wisdom, care, and an unwavering sense of integrity. You always knew where Harry stood, and those who knew him best wouldn’t have had it any other way.

Graveside Services with Military Honors will be at Noon, Saturday, April 5, 2025 at Monmouth Cemetery, Monmouth, IL, Rev. James A. Hailey of the St. James AME church will preside over the service. Harry helped build the St. James AME Church in Monmouth, Illinois, which always held a special place in his heart and will be where the after service Repass meal will be held. The address is St. James AME church, 900 South 3rd St. in Monmouth, Illinois. This is a time where family and friends can share memories, and offer support in an informal setting. Visitation will be prior to the service from 10:00-11:30 a.m. at McGuire & Davies Funeral Home and Crematory, Monmouth, IL. Memorials can be made to the Harry Patterson Memorial Fund. McGuire & Davies Funeral Home and Crematory, Monmouth, IL is in charge of the arrangements.