Pastor Ray Marcus Patterson was born in Benton County, Lamar, Mississippi, on August 12, 1960, to Pastor James T. Patterson and the late Mrs. Mary Louise Patterson. He was preceded in death by his beloved sisters, Ms. Linda Patterson and Ms. Betty Patterson.

Pastor Ray Patterson accepted Christ as his Savior at a young age and answered the call to preach at the age of 20 years old. He began his pastoral leadership in the early 1990’s at Fellowship Baptist Church in Somerville, Tennessee. He went on to serve faithfully at Mt. Bethel Church in Michigan City, Mississippi, and was the current Pastor of Pleasant Hill Church in Saulsbury, Tennessee, where his ministry continued to touch lives with grace and truth.

On September 6, 2009, Pastor Patterson was united in holy matrimony to the love of his life, Mrs. Teresa Griffin Patterson. Together, they built a beautiful blended family of six children: Denisha Moss (Jasper) of Olive Branch, MS, Shunterica Williams (Olive Branch, MS), Link Fisher (Memphis, TN), Marcus Patterson (Veronica) of Houston, TX, DeLeon Patterson (Natalie) of Atlanta, GA, and Terenton Williams (Olive Branch, MS)

Pastor Ray Patterson finished his race and entered eternal peace on September 10, 2025, at the age of 65. He leaves behind his loving wife of 16 years, six children, fifteen grandchildren, and five great-grandchildren. He is also survived by father – Pastor James T. Patterson (Lamar, MS), four sisters, Mary Patterson (Memphis, TN), Michelle Cochran (Stanley) of Chattanooga, TN, Brenda Williams (Eddie) of Huntsville, AL, and Tamika Jackson (Reggie) of Arlington, TN—and five brothers: Willie Patterson (Barbara) of Collierville, TN, Floyd Patterson (Carolyn) of Memphis, TN, Bradley Patterson (Sureather) of Lamar, MS, Samiour Patterson (Christene) of Frisco, TX, and Joseph Patterson (Demetria) of Huntsville, AL. He leaves a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and cherished friends.

Pastor Ray Patterson was a man of unwavering faith, boundless love, and a servant’s heart. He will be remembered as a devoted pastor, a loving husband, a dedicated father, a compassionate brother, and a loyal friend. His life was a testament to kindness, faithfulness, and deep love for God, his children, grandchildren, family, and all people.

To those who knew him, Ray was more than a spiritual leader; he was a mentor, a counselor, a superhero, and a guiding light. He led with purpose, optimism, and intentionality, never seeing obstacles, but opportunities to serve. His laughter brought joy, his wisdom brought peace, and his presence brought comfort.

Pastor Ray Patterson was a man after God’s own heart, dependable, present, and full of grace. He had a peaceful spirit and always knew the right words to say. His charisma and selflessness made every moment feel lighter, and his courage inspired others to never back down from a challenge.