WAYNESVILLE, N.C. - Edward Charles Patterson, 88, of Waynesville, N.C., formerly of Mendota, passed away at his home with his family at his side on May 27, 2017.

A private entombment service with military honors was held at The Horizon Mausoleum at Crawford/Ray Memorial Gardens in Clyde, N.C.

Edward was born March 4, 1929 in Ottawa to Orville and Thelma (McClellan) Patterson. He married Geraldine “Gerry” Stager of Waynesville.

Survivors include his wife of 66 years; one daughter, Linda (Dave) Baker of Ocala, Fla.; six sons, William (Linda) Patterson of Mendota, Stephen (Roberta) Patterson of Mendota, Richard (Pat) Patterson of Waynesville, N.C., Dan Patterson of Waynesville, N.C., Gary (Jennifer) Patterson of Mooresville, N.C. and Jeffrey Patterson of Granite Falls, N.C.; 18 grandchildren; 34 great-grandchildren; and one great-great-granddaughter.

He was preceded in death by his parents, three brothers and four sisters.

Edward lived in many areas of the United States including Mendota before making his home in Haywood County, N.C. for the past 27 years. He was a U.S. Navy Veteran, who honorably served on the USS Henderson and the USS Keosanqua during the Korean War. Following his military service, he was employed as a bridge inspector with several railroad companies and also the North Carolina Department of Transportation from which he retired. Edward always kept busy repairing or working on projects around his home, which created many happy memories that are treasured by his family. He loved meeting and visiting with people and truly enjoyed spending time outdoors. He was a man who deeply loved his family and loved his country.

Crawford/Ray Funeral Home and Cremation Service handled the arrangements. Online condolences may be shared at www.crawfordray.com.