10/05/2026
Talladega County EMA extends our deepest condolences to the family of Mr. Larry Patterson. Mr. Patterson served as our Division Coordinator and was a valued part of our emergency management family.
Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and loved ones during this difficult time.
Rest in peace, sir. You will be missed. 🙏
OBITUARY: Retired Col. James Larry Patterson remembered for lifetime of service, leadership and devotion to family
Retired Alabama Army National Guard Col. James Larry Patterson, a decorated military leader whose life was defined by service to his country, his community and his family, died peacefully at his home on Oct. 1, 2026. He was 78.
Patterson passed away surrounded by family, closing a life marked by decades of military leadership, emergency management service and a deep devotion to the people he loved.
Born Sept. 19, 1948, in Talladega to Ray and Lucille Patterson, Larry grew up with what his family described as a strong sense of purpose and respect for service.
He graduated from Talladega High School, where he met his high school sweetheart, Linda Sue Yates Patterson. Their marriage spanned 56 years, while their relationship stretched across six decades.
A lifetime of military service
One of Patterson’s most defining roles was his full-time service in the Alabama Army National Guard.
Over the course of his career, he rose to the rank of colonel before retiring in 2003 following decades of leadership and service.
In 1998, Patterson graduated from the U.S. Army War College, reflecting what his family described as his commitment to professional excellence and strategic leadership.
His military honors included the Legion of Merit, Meritorious Service Medal, Bronze Star, Operation Desert Storm Ribbon and the Distinguished Service Medal of Alabama.
Those who knew him said the awards represented more than career accomplishments. They reflected the integrity, courage and steady leadership he brought to his work.
Continuing to serve Alabama
Retirement did not end Patterson’s commitment to helping others.
He later joined the Alabama Emergency Management Agency, where he worked to support communities across the state during disasters, displacement and other times of crisis.
Whether serving in uniform or helping Alabamians recover from emergencies, Patterson was known for remaining calm under pressure and offering leadership and reassurance when people needed it most.
His family described him as strong, selfless and dependable — someone who would do anything for a colleague, friend, family member or stranger.
He encouraged others to become stronger and more confident while rarely seeking recognition for himself.
A devoted husband, father and grandfather
Despite a career filled with distinguished service, Patterson’s family said his greatest joy was found at home.
He enjoyed walking his property, fishing, sitting peacefully on his back porch and spending time with the people closest to him.
Although he was often known for his serious demeanor, Patterson also had a playful side.
He loved teasing those around him, being silly with his grandchildren and creating memories during family gatherings with hayrides, games and other activities.
His family said he carried a steady presence that made others feel safe, supported and cared for.
Patterson is survived by his wife, Linda Sue Yates Patterson; daughters Penny (Jeff) Ruffner and Stefanie (Trey) Woodrow; grandchildren Ashley Morton (Justin) Vaughn, Justin Stewart (Jessaleigh) and Cleo Woodrow; and great-grandchildren Jordon, Oakleigh, Samuel, Salem, Owen and Ailia.
He is also survived by his sisters Barbara Ann Hubbard and Jackie Hurley; sisters-in-law Janie Patterson and Peggy (Marce) Whalen; brother-in-law Charles Yates; and numerous nieces, nephews, extended family members and friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Ray and Lucille Patterson; brothers Bobby Ray Patterson and Michael Walter Patterson; and grandson Charles Dewayne “Chas” Morton Jr.
A legacy of service and kindness
For those who knew Patterson, his legacy extends far beyond military decorations or professional accomplishments.
His family said the values he lived by were simple but lasting: serve without hesitation, love without condition and measure a life not by recognition, but by the people helped along the way.
“Col. Patterson leaves behind a family who adored him and who will continue to honor his memory by living with the same strength, kindness and devotion he showed every day of his life,” his family shared.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations in Patterson’s honor be made to Children’s of Alabama or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.
