Donald "Ray" Patton

Donald “Ray” Patton, 81, of Nebo, passed away Sunday, September 17, 2023 at UNC Health Blue Ridge in Morganton.

A native of McDowell County, Ray was born October 28, 1941 to the late Eulas Wilburn Patton and Artha Plemmons Patton. In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his wife of 52 years, Jackie Beam Patton; his sister, Ruby Patton; and one brother, Arnold “Jay” Patton.

Ray was a devoted fan of the UNC Tarheels and the Atlanta Braves. He was a great friend who never met a stranger. More than anything, he loved his family, especially his grandchildren and great grandchildren. Ray served in the U.S. Army from 1966 to 1968. He later retired as Plant Manager within the Department of Corrections. He loved Patton Valley Farm and enjoyed many different aspects of farming throughout his life.

Those left to cherish his memories are his daughters, Rhonda Robbins and husband, Joe and Amy Brewer and husband, John; six grandchildren, Elizabeth Robbins Brown and husband, Zack, Matthew Robbins, Blake Brewer and wife, Bobbie English Brewer, Cole Brewer, Landon Brewer, and Tyler Brewer; four great grandchildren, Cameron, Jared, Isaac, and Elijah Brown; and one brother, Joseph “Dean” Patton and wife, Mary.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, September 23, 2023 at 11:00 a.m. in the Chapel of Beam Funeral Service with Pastor Dean Owenby officiating. The family will receive friends from 10:00 until 11:00 a.m.