Bobby Patterson

On Wednesday, March 21st, 2012, Bobby Carroll Patterson, 81, died peacefully at his Shelby home surrounded by his family after a short battle with cancer.

A resident of Cleveland County, Bobby was preceded in death by his grandson, Joshua Hoyle. Mr. Patterson was an active member of Poplar Springs Baptist Church, the DAV, American Legion and the VFW. He was honorably discharged from the 1st Marine Division of the U.S. Marines as a Corporal. He proudly leaves the legacy of being the most decorated Korean War veteran in Cleveland County. His medals include three purple hearts and the bronze star with valor.

Survivors include his wife of 60 years, Nancy Patterson, of the home; three daughters, Cynda Cooper and husband Don of Lancaster, SC, Ann Hoyle and husband Jerry of Indian Trail and Tanya Howell and husband Charles of Shelby. Grandchildren are Jeremy Harrill, Warren Cooper, Caleb Howell and Leah Hoyle;  great grandchildren Jessica Rich, Brandon Harrill, Dalton Cooper and Carol Howell; and great-great-grandchildren, Noah and Ellie.

Other survivors are brother and sisters-in-law, Jim and Lo McMurry, Dale and Mildred McMurry, Carolyn and Art Hamrick and Diann Langley; a special nephew and niece, Gordon and Gail Langley, as well as numerous other nieces and nephews.

Memorials: In lieu of flowers, memorial may be made to Hospice of Cleveland County, 951 Wendover Heights Drive, Shelby, NC 28150 and Poplar Springs Baptist Church , 1106 Poplar Springs Church Road, Shelby, NC 28152.