In Loving Memory of Joan Mary Patterson
Joan Mary Patterson, a beloved resident of Modesto, California since 1981, passed away peacefully in her home on May 17, 2024, at the age of 96. Born in 1927 in Schenectady, New York, to Lewi and Edna Tonks, Joan lived a life filled with dedication to her family, community, and lifelong learning.
Joan’s family shared a tight bond and an idyllic life in the countryside, full of family adventures and storytelling. She graduated as valedictorian from her high school and went on to attend Cornell University. After earning her degree, she pursued a credential in occupational therapy (OT) from Columbia University, graduating in 1950. In OT school it was made known that there were jobs in California. Joan was ready for an adventure, so she bought a 1937 Ford Model A and drove with one of her classmates from New York to the Napa State Hospital in Napa, California, where they were both hired immediately. Her career as an occupational therapist flourished, and she later served the Stanislaus County Mental Health Department with distinction until her retirement in 1993.
In 1957, Joan married Allen Patterson, a seminary student she met at Napa State Hospital. Their life together, influenced by Allen’s service in the US Air Force, took them to various places, including Idaho, Greece, California, Texas, Wyoming and Oregon. Joan embraced the Air Force community, earning the Officers’ Wives’ Club Woman of the Year award in 1974. The couple had three children: Mary, Philip, and John, who were the joy of Joan’s life.
Joan’s commitment to her community was unwavering. As a longtime member of the Friends of Modesto Library, she served on both its board and the Stanislaus County Library board. In recognition of her dedication, the library established the Joan Patterson Stellar Achievement Award, honoring volunteers who embody her passion and commitment. Joan was also an active participant in a local and long established book club for many decades, sharing her love for literature with friends.
Joan was a dedicated member of the Unitarian Universalist (UU) Fellowship of Stanislaus County, where she served on the board and led the Membership Committee for many years. Joan’s passion for civic involvement and social justice was evident in her contributions to the UU church and her activity with the League of Women Voters. Her community engagement also included a year as a Visiting Editor for The Modesto Bee.
Joan stayed physically active as long as she was able and nourished her friendships. She exercised regularly at the YMCA with a group of friends who named themselves the WYSE Women and who remained close over the years. She was constantly seeking knowledge and adventure, traveling extensively both within the United States and internationally. Highlights of her travels included visits to Russia and Hawaii through the Elderhostel program, as well as Egypt, Israel, China and Europe.
Despite her many accomplishments and contributions, Joan considered her children her most meaningful legacy. She was a loving, compassionate, and intelligent mother, always curious and dedicated to her family and community. Joan and Allen divorced in 1984 but remained friends throughout their lives.
Joan is survived by her children, Mary, Philip, and John Patterson; her grandchildren, Ryan, Derek, Devon and Delaney Patterson and Nina and Sofia Aliamus; and her newborn great grandson. She is survived by the numerous friends who cherished her company and wisdom.
Joan Patterson’s legacy of love, dedication, curiosity and devotion to family will continue to inspire all who knew her. She is deeply missed and forever remembered.
Beloved Joan, your spirit lives on in the hearts of those you touched.
A celebration of Joan’s life will be held on Saturday, August 31st, 2024, at 2:00 pm at the Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Stanislaus County in Modesto, California. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Friends of Modesto Library, in honor of Joan’s enduring commitment to community service and her love of books and words.
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