Smith's Funeral Home | Wadesboro, NC
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Obituary For Dr. Altheria Smith Patton
Dr. Altheria Smith Patton, a resident of Anson County since 1947, has been an exceptional and inspirational personality in Anson County’s education, community service and arts. Born January 23, 1927, in Warsaw, North Carolina, her parents were Joshua Willard Smith and Lula Sutton Smith. She accepted her wings Wednesday, July 10, 2024, at the phenomenal age of 97.
Personal
Dr. Patton is the widow of the late Morris Patton, Sr., also an educator and parents of three children, Morris Patton, Jr. (deceased) (Genetta Williams), Mitchell Patton (Hattie) and Anja Patton-Evans, M.D. (Ray); 10 grandchildren: Timotheus Patton, Althea Nika Patton, Mitchell Patton, Jr., Jennifer Patton, Nevada Patton, Tamara Evans, Ryan Evans, Markesce Patton-Williams (Kyerre), Marhonda Liles (Timothy), Nashon Richardson; 11 great-grandchildren: Mahogany Burns, Malasia Patton, Maziah Patton, Nautica Patton, Jeniah Riley, and Miracle Riley, Monifah Liles Jones (Johnny), Timothy Liles, Jr. (Brittany), Shazmine Liles, Montreal Liles, and Tashawn Liles; and 17 great-great grandchildren.
She is survived by two siblings, Bessie Smith Dozier (Richard) and Willard Allen Smith (Fannie). She was preceded in death by her parents Joshua Willard Smith and Lula Sutton Smith as well as siblings: Othonia Smith Hill, Lila Smith Williamson, James William Smith, Nora Smith Miller, Marie Smith McCalop, Sarah Z. Smith, and Argie Smith Blackmore. She has a host of loving nieces, nephews, and cousins. She was the proud Matriarch of the Joshua Willard Smith family.
In 2015, Dr. Patton hosted the 50th Family Reunion of this vast clan of 6 generations. She has been the J.W. Smith family historian, publishing family newsletters that were distributed to families at the annual J.W. Smith family reunions since 1969. She put together a book, Through Joshua Willard Smith A Legacy Is Born: A Chronology of Family and Faith 1965 – 2018. This book contained the family newsletters from 1969 though 2015 as well as pictures and other family information. Dr. Patton had this book printed and she arranged for a copy of this book to be distributed to each individual J.W. Smith family member.
Passion & Calling
Dr. Patton began teaching immediately after graduating from North Carolina A&T University, at then-Polkton Colored High School. This opportunity at a segregated school was the beginning of an accomplished 60-year career in education. Dr. Patton has been a trailblazer as a teacher, counselor, administrator and as the first African- American principal of Anson Junior High School, first African American female Associate Superintendent of Anson County Schools, the first African American female vice-chair of the Anson County School Board and was instrumental in establishing the Alternative Learning School - Anson Challenge Academy, a concept that originated from her dissertation. Her life and career of courage and perseverance has been a shining example to thousands of young men and women to achieve their dreams, without fear. She was also Adjunct Faculty at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte, at South Piedmont Community College and Student Support Services Consultant for Chesterfield-Marlboro Technical College in Chesterfield, South Carolina.
Lifelong Learner
Dr. Patton holds a Doctor of Education from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (1990); a Master of Arts from Columbia University (1952) and a Bachelor of Arts from North Carolina A&T University (1947).
Lifetime Achievements
Dr. Patton’s community service is evident through her work with numerous boards, clubs and organizations. She has served as Director of Christian Education (Children Division) for the Wadesboro- Monroe District of the African Methodist Episcopal (A.M.E.) Zion Church; Trustee, Sunday School Teacher, Usher Board member, Class Leader and Director of Christian Education for Kesler Chapel A.M.E. Zion Church; Educator Emeritus to the East Polkton School Alumni Association; Member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars Ladies Auxiliary, Order of the Eastern Star, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority (Initiated into the Alpha Phi Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. in 1945 at N.C. A & T University;), National Association of University Women, Wadesboro Town Council, Wadesboro Rotary Club, Director, Anson County Chamber of Commerce 1991-1993, Anson County Historical Society, Anson County Arts Council, Kesler Chapel A.M.E. Zion Church Century Club Member 1970-1973, and North Carolina Association of Educators (NCAE) Board of Directors 1974-77.
She also served as president of NCAE District 8 Division of Principals and Administrators and as Member of NCAE State Resolutions Committee. She served as a member of the Region VI North Carolina Teaching Fellows Regional Screening Committee in 1988. She also served in the North Carolina School Boards Association, North Carolina Retired School Personnel, and the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People; She served as chairwoman of Anson County Social Services Board 1987-1990, Trustee for South Piedmont Community College, Evaluator for the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS) on Accreditation and School Improvement, Director for the Wadesboro Branch of Anson Bank and Trust (now Uwharrie Bank), Director for the Wadesboro Branch of United Carolina Bank, and Director for the Wadesboro Branch of Branch Banking and Trust (Now Truist Bank). to name a few.
Lifetime Acknowledgements
Her lifetime awards and recognitions are numerous and notable for the renaming of Sikes Avenue in Wadesboro, N.C. to Dr. Altheria S. Patton Way in her honor on January 20, 2024, and January 23rd was proclaimed as Dr. Altheria S. Patton Day by the Wadesboro Mayor and Town Council. She became a charter member of the Alpha Alpha Chi Omega Chapter of A.K.A. Sorority, Inc. in 2021 and she was a Diamond Soror as well as a life member of A.K.A. Sorority, Inc. She was awarded the Order of the Long Leaf Pine in 2016 by Governor Pat McCrory and received a personal congratulatory letter from then- President Barrack Obama, acknowledging her commitment to education and to Anson County.
She was the Wadesboro Optimist Club Woman of the Year 1982. She received the NAACP Distinguished Service Award in the Field of Education in 1982. She received the North Carolina Association of Educators Special Service Award 1974 – 1977. She was the Bowman Senior High School Teacher of the year in 1975. She was the Kesler Chapel AME Zion Church Woman of the year in 1975. She was a charter member of the Wadesboro N.A.U.W. in 1972.
Dr. Patton has traveled to more than thirty countries and has been acknowledged by international and national groups that include United States Representative to the World Confederation of Organizations of the Teaching Profession (now Education International), Rotary International - Paul Harris Fellow and National Association of University Women - Woman of the Year in 1983. She collaborated with Irene Hailey Harrington, author, to complete her historical fiction book, A Long Journey Home: The Dr. Altheria S. Patton Story, published in December 2023.
Her Words to Live By
Nelson Mandela stated that: “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.” Over the course of her career, Dr. Patton has taught and counseled thousands of students, many of whom are changing the world through careers in medicine, law, business, education, engineering, sports and the arts. As she is fond of saying: “Anson County Schools have produced a bevy of qualified professionals, who are doing great things, and they all got their start here in this often discounted, rural county. We have done some good things here.”
The Services to Celebrate Dr. Patton's Life and Legacy will be on Saturday, July 20, 2024, at 11:00 a.m., on the campus of Anson Middle School (Gymnasium), 832 US Highway 52, Wadesboro, North Carolina. The interment will be in the Patton Family Plot, Westview Memorial Park, Polkton, North Carolina.
The Patton Family will greet family and friends on Friday, July 19, 2024, from 5:30 to 6:00 p.m. at Smith's Funeral Home, on Saturday, July 20, 2024, from 10:30 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. at Anson Middle School, and at all other times at the family residence, 515 Dr. Altheria S. Patton Way, Wadesboro, North Carolina.
The Services will be live-streamed on Facebook on Saturday, July 20, 2024, at H. C. Smith Funeral Home at 10:45 am.
Guest Book
Patton Family--Although it's difficult today to see beyond the sorrow, may looking back in memory help comfort you tomorrow. May God continue to hold you in the palm of His hand, and give you strength in the days ahead. Please accept our sincere condolences.....we hope your memories of her will be of some comfort. The Patton family are in our prayers. Remember in God's Holy Word that weeping may endure for a night but joy cometh in the morning. Peace and love be with you, The Family of the Late Miss Lucile Crump (Vance, Mittie, Thomas and Bryson McCoy)
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We give God the glory and honor for orchestrating the blessed opportunities that has allowed our family to meet and connect with Dr. Altheria Patton and her family for more than 30 years. Our family has been very blessed in so many ways by Dr. Patton's insightfulness on a variety of issues, her religious and moral fortitude, her love for teaching and learning, and her genuine loving, kind, and gentle spirit to name a few of her many talents and passions. We extend our sincerest sympathy to Anja, Ray, Tamara, and Ryan, as well as other members of the Patton Family. May God continue to bless and keep you always. The Leroy and Gloria Davis Family Austin Texas
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Dr. Altheria Patton, a remarkable woman of love and humility will always be treasure to all who knew and loved her. Praise God for her life and legacy! Praying for the family! She was a wonderful person, a wonderful teacher and a wonderful example. She will be missed. I love ❤️ her and her family so much.. Sending Prayers and condolences to you all 🙏🏾🙏🏾Take your Rest Sweet Angel 👼🏾
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To the Anja, Mitch and family I want to extend my deepest condolences. We have lost pur phenomenal woman but she prepared us well for life, love and legacy. Her words of wisdom and incredible love of family and life is an example to us all. Aunt Al was brilliant, punky and light in the midst of a storm for me when we lost my dad. I am truly crushed and wish I could be there.To a life well lived. Rest in power Aunt Al.
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To the family of a very special teacher/mentor/counselor and extended family member, thanks for the shared memories. We loved her and shared her marks of excellence she achieved. God bless each of you. Joe Frank & Daisy Polk Little & Children Fayetteville, NCC8DV
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Continued prayers for your family during this time. Memories of her and her contributions to so many lives through her work, life accomplishments will never be forgotten. Pamela Diggins, Camaya Miler and Bralan Miller.
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Dr. Patton was a remarkable educator and champion for rural public schools in NC. She was truly a role model for many educators of color and I am so glad she paved the way! Rest in peace Dr. Patton! Love, Soror Dr. Karen Roseboro and Hailey Family
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Condolences to the Patton Family. As a classmate of Anja, my prayers go out to you and your family during this difficult time. Take care, Ms. Love
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To The Patton Family, we will keep you in our thoughts and prayers. Aunt Al was our pioneer, our consistent smile, and delight. Aunt Al will be missed by us all. I will never forget the many stories you shared with me and her infectious smile that would light up my world! My sincere condolences to Anja, Mitch and the family as well as extended family & friends. Aunt Al's memories will last forever. May God Bless you all. -Cousin Troy, Tenisha, Xavier and Chandler Williamson
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The Patton Family May our GOD continue to bless each of you in the days to follow as the celebration of her sainted life will continue in the days to come. Dr. Patton blessed so many students in her English Class. Well Done !!!
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Thinking of You. Love, Florence L. Brown Dungeon Women's Missionary Society. Bethel AME Church, Chattanooga, TN 37404
- Edna C. Joseph
Dr. Patton was an extraordinary woman , a trail blazer and admired by me and many , many others. She was a role model indeed. Empathy , condolences and prayers for the family. Rest in Power , Queen.
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Dr. Patton was an extraordinary woman , a trail blazer and admired by me and many , many others. She was a role model indeed. Empathy , condolences and prayers for the family. Rest in Power , Queen.
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Ruby and I extend our sympathy to the Patton family. She taught both of us English. Soar with Angels DR A Patton. She was an awesome educator. Joe and Ruby Broadaway. Clarksville TN.
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CLARA AND JOHN CRAWFORD,URSULA SMITH,CHETON SMITH,COURTNEY SMITH,FANNIE SMITH AND MRS. DAVENPORT WE KNOW YOU IN GOOD HAND DR. ALTHERIA SMITH PATTON, BECAUSE JESUS HAS THE WHOLE WORLD, IN HIS HAND, AND RIGHT NOW, HE HAS YOU, AND ALL US IN HIS HAND, ON EARTH AND IN HEAVEN. YOU HAVE LEFT US TO BE IN HIS ARMS AND WE ALL WILL SEE YOU AGAIN IN HEAVEN.
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You will be miss my, sister by, me Willard, Smitten and we see each other one day in heaven and be at peace with our father, JESUS CHRIST.
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WILLARD SMITH,FANNIE SMITH,JOHN CRAWFORD,CLARA CRAWFORD,URSULA SMITH,CHETON SMITH, COURTNEY SMITH,LINDA DAVENPOR ( NURSE}
- LINDA DAVENPORT
A Great Pioneer Woman who will be missed by all who knew her. Prayers to the family! Callie & Susan Little
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I am sorry to hear about Dr.Patton passing.She was my neighbor some years ago. I lived across from her on Sikes Street.
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Our deepest condolences from the Little's Family. Dr. Patton was considered a part of our family. Not only was she our teacher at East Polkton School, but a friend and mentor as well. She taught with a smile. Dr. Patton was a living example for all that knew her. We all loved her. Sleep on Dr. Patton, you have earned your rest. Effie L. Hill, Harrisburg, N.C.
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Sending heartfelt condolences to the family. From Lossie Carter and family
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To the Family of Dr.Patton, I would like to send my deepest condolences. Dr.Patton was a great inspiration to me. She always encourage me to do and be the very best whatever task I took upon myself. I had Dr. Patton for English 2 years at East Polkton High School and my Senior year at Bowman Senior High School, class of 1969. She will be greatly missed by all that knew and Loved her. Don't be sad she is smiling with God.Bless you all. Kennie Buchanon
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Thank GOD for bringing Dr Patton into our life Dr Patton PREPARED us for SUCCESS. Wishing Gods Blessings to the Patton family Mary Little (67) 🙏
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My sincere condolences to the family of Dr. Altheria Patton who was one of my dynamic mentors,co-workers, role models,and friends. She, along with Mrs. Lynette Morgan and Priscilla Malloy Wade,took me under their wings and blessed me with their expertise,love and support for many years as an English teacher at Bowman High School. Years later, I have had the opportunity to bless her as my Senior Delight in Electa Chapter #525 OES. I will always remember her as sharp mind and appreciate her encouragement, wisdom, tenacity, and love for all. Rest in peace,my dear mentor and colleague!
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Anya, Ray, Tamara, & extended family, Our deepest sympathies on the loss of your mother & grandmother. Bennie & Becky Greathouse
- Bennie Greathouse
Dr. Patton was my English Teacher for all four years of High School. Two years at East Polkton High School and two more years at Bowman High School "Class of 1969". She had a great influence on my life and my future work ethics. Regards, Delane Rorie
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Dr.Patton, truly was an inspiration to all that had an opportunity to interact with her. She was a deep thinker and when she spoke it was with volume. She always had a kind word for her family, friends and associates. A life well lived. James Bennett
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Dr Patton, you meant so much to me and our Class of 1975. You taught us many things that has stuck with us all of our lives and for that I just wa t to say thank you for a job well done. In loving memory of you.
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Condolences to the Patton Family 💐 B. Hailey
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Heartfelt condolences and condolences for our dear cousin. May she rest in heavenly peace. Jimmie and Jannie Newkirk
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Heartfelt condolences and prayers for our dear cousin. May she rest in heavenly peace.
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Heartfelt condolences and prayers for our dear cousin. May she rest in heavenly peace.
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Heartfelt condolences and prayers as we remember our dear cousin. May you rest in peace.
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Dr. Patton was a kind lady, soft spoken educator, visionary, and friend to our family. Prayers for Anja, Mitchell, Jr., and family. Reese Dutton and Maresa Dutton Phillips
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Dr. Patton was put on this earth to share her wisdom, love for family and friends, her beautiful smile, and most of all, her God-given knowledge of how to encourage others to succeed, and she did that and more. Not only did she teach lessons to her students in the classroom, she taught them life-long lessons that will continue to play an important role in their lives as she smiles from heaven. Prayers to her family as she rest among the angels. The Rivers Family
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Dr. Patton was a wonderful teacher and touched so many student's lives. I was one of those students. She was an asset to Anson County and will be missed by many. Sincere condolences to the Patten family during this sad time. Kay Register
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Such an amazing lady. Prayers for the family. Wayne Lassiter and family
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our condolences to the family DR PATTON was a great kind lady and a good neighbor teacher prayers for comfort to the family john McCormick family Trinity NC
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I send my condolences to the Patton family. She was a great lady that kept me straight in school. You will be missed rest in heaven queen. Wakisha Davis and the Davis family. Love
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I loved Ms. Patton. I had her for English 105 in 1979, my Senior Year at B.H.S. She was one of the best and influential teachers in all of my 17 years of education. I still to this day have and display in ny home the poem Desiderata. She was a truly special child of God! Heaven has gained a specialangel. Fly high Dr.P, Fly high!
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To a phenomenal woman and example of a life well lived.. the impact of what you did for the people of the Anson County community will live forever! Rodney Tillman Class of '78
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Sincere condolences and prayers to the Patton Family. Dr Patton has been to the Polk Family the Voice that offered Wisdom to my sibblings and I at East Polkton and Bowman. As a Foreign exchange student Dr Payton's encouragement did not stop. She offered Hope during 911 and was persuading all of us to persevere during our hours of bereavement and she did Celebrated our accomplishments. May her voice continue to speak to us Spiritually because of the God fearing person that she is in Christ. Claybrooks-Ross Family.
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My condolences to the family and friends. She was one of my teachers at Bowman High School in 1973. The Class of 74 remembers her with much respect and fo dress. Gloria Privette Jordan Class of '74
- Gloria Privette Jordan
Winston-Salem n.c send love and condolences to the Patton family. What a great woman.
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Such a caring and sweet soul. My high school experience in her 12th grade English class was impeccably unforgettable. I remember the printed copies of "DESIDERATA" she handed to our class before graduation in 1973. DESIDERATA gives the reader different expectations and advices when facing life's challenges. I think of MRS.PATTON each time I read it. Her name is a household name in my family and has been since raising my children. Sending my prayers of comfort and condolences to her entire PATTON families. May God give you strength during this period of bereavement.
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Prayers and condolences to the Patton family, friends, and the community. Dr. Patton taught me and my siblings at East Polkton HS. You impacted many lives along the way. You instilled education, wisdom, and guidance. Your legacy lives on. You will be missed. We love you. - Levones Taylor Chisholm
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Condolences to Anja, Mitchell Jr and the family.
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Wow what can I say. Dr. Patton and my mother were colleagues and friends. She and her husband Mitchell Sr. worked with my parents Ben and Lynette Morgan at East Polkton High School before integration. She was my 12 grade Advanced English. Kind but stern. She contributed so much to education in Anson County. She took an interest in each and every student. She was always available to help any. When I left Anson County for VA in 1999 she told me to keep in touch, and I did. Everytime I would come home for a visit I would go by to visit her. A beautiful human being.
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On behalf of members of Bowman High School Class of 1968, we extend our condolences and prayers to the family for the passing of Dr. Altheria Smith Patton. Dr. Patton was a strong advocate for all children throughout her career as an educator; especially children of color during the early consolidation of schools. She was among the African American teachers, during the first year of Anson County Schools' consolidation, 1967-1968, who was pivotal in ensuring that equity and inclusion were paramount in providing optimal educational opportunities for all children. Dr. Patton's legacy as an educator will be forever etched in the very fabric of Anson County Schools and in the hearts, minds, and lives of students she touched as a teacher. Family members, please know we are here for you as you celebrate and honor Dr. Patton. We love her dearly and will never forget her impact on our lives. God bless you with God's comforting spirit. Members of Bowman High School Class of 1968 Submitted by Josephine Leak Harris Member of the Class of 1968 & Class Reunion Chair
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Dr. Patton was my 11th grade English teacher. Her class was one of the few that I looked forward to going to each day. She was very kind and at the same very firm. She was just what I needed at a very turbulent time in my educational experience. I still remember the exact words she said to me that inspired me to go to college. She has done a great work and I, Anson County and the world will miss her. Joseph K. Gatewood Bowman High Class of 1972
- Joseph Gatewood
Prayers and condolences to the Patton family, friends and the community. Dr. Patton taught me and my siblings at East Polkton HS. You impacted many lives along the way. You instilled education, wisdom and guidance. Your legacy lives on. You will be missed. We love you.
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Sending my Sincere Condolences to the Patton Family! So sorry for your loss. ❤️🙏🏽 Brenda Merriman
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My prayers and condolences goes out to the family she was a great teacher she will be very missed.
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She was a wonderful person, a wonderful teacher and a wonderful example. She will be missed. I had her in high school for my English teacher!! Brenda Colson Richardson
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My CondolencesTo The Family. She was one of the sweetest people you could ever meet One of The Best English Teachers at East Polkton School. RIP Dr. Patton
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My mentor, my friend... I only needed one more conversation with you. Your legacy lives on through many of us. Peace and Love to the family. Dr. Bobbie Little
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On behalf of Myself and the staff of Anson County Sheriff's Office, we extend our deepest sympathies to the family at this time. We pray that you will have comfort in the midst of your pain and peace in the midst of your sorrow. -Sheriff Scott Howell
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My prayers for all who loved Dr. Patton. She taught us more than English. She set an example of how to live.
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May she rest easy in Heaven. She taught many of us more than English; she set an example for how to live.
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Dr. Patton - a pillar to our community, an asset to our school system, and a true servant of God! What a remarkable woman she was! Extending our deepest and sincerest condolences to the Patton family and to all those fortunate to know and love her. - Nikki Harrington-Bennett & family
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Sending my condolences and prayers to the Patton family may God strengthen you all during this time of sorrow. Mrs Patton was my English teacher in the 12th grade. She believed in her students to learn and do your very best. She was very firm but she was a very humble lady. She will be truly be missed. ♥️🙏🏼❤️ Angela Coleman Ledbetter
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My sympathy and condolences to your family, My God bless you all 🙏.
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Our deepest condolences to the family. May Keep and comfort you through wonderful memories. Charles and Carol Ford
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To the family of Dr.Altheria S. Patton we are sending our condolences and prayers🙏🏾to the family. I will truly miss you Aunt Al one of the greatest person on this earth. Irish, Joe, Tashaun, Maya and Troy in Mint Hill NC
- Irish Carithers
Condolences To Dr. Smith's Family And Friends. Rest In Paradise 🌹🌹 Barbara A. Ratliff & Family
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I am so sorry to hear this. She was my senior English teacher in 1975. My condolences to her family. Cathy Williams Kelly
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Peace to the Family. Weeping may endure for a night, but Joy cometh in the morning. It's morning time for this Awesome of God. I have so many fond memories of this Gentle Giant. I can remember doing research, going from City to city, County to County as setting up the First In-School Suspension School in Anson County under the Caring Leadership of My Mentor, Dr. Altheria Patton while she continously worked on her Doctorate Degree. Dr. Patton was a caring and Compassion person, her love for students were endless. She was a Queen among all Queens. Make the work you have done speak for you. Well done thou Good and Faithful Servant. My role Model, rest now, you have earn your wings..Blessings to the Family PrestonWaddell
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My condolences to the family praying 🙏 such a great person Lydia Allen
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Rest in peace my friend!
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You were a great lady. I will miss you dearly. LOVE Michelle Hill
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" A life well lived" Praying for family comfort that God will provide! Caleb & Catherine Sturdivant
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Dr. Altheria Patton, a remarkable woman of love and humility will always be treasure to all who knew and loved her. Praise God for her life and legacy! Praying for the family! John and Dannie Montgomery
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Our staff will continue to keep your family in our prayers. We thank you for allowing us to serve your family.
- Smith's Funeral Home | Wadesboro, NC