In Loving Memory of Ernestine Joyce Patterson

Ernestine Joyce Patterson

Sunrise: September 12, 1940 |

Sunset: April 6, 2025

Thursday, September 12, 1940 — a warm summer day, and the angels were busy making last-minute preparations. It was a special day as Ernestine Joyce Patterson came into the world. Born in Fort Scott, Kansas, she later made Seattle her lifelong home.

A proud graduate of Fort Scott High School, Ernestine showed early signs of leadership, excellence, and civic dedication. She was selected to attend Sunflower Girls State, a leadership and citizenship training program that honored her strong character and academic promise.

Following high school, Ernestine earned her dental assisting certification from the Seattle Dental Assistant and Technician School. She worked for 11 years as a dental assistant to Dr. J.B. Thompson Jr., D.D.S., and later joined Group Health, where she served faithfully in the Accounts Receivable Department for 17 years. After retiring in 1998, she continued her personal and educational growth by earning a professional certification from Seattle Vocational Institute.

Ernestine was known for her warmth, elegance, and unwavering dedication to both her family and community. Affectionately called “Graham-Graham” by her beloved grandchildren and great-grandchildren, she found joy in cooking, music, antiques, and hosting family gatherings—especially Mother’s Day, which she celebrated proudly as the heart of the family.

She will be remembered for her grace, strength, humility, and boundless love, which she shared freely with everyone who had the blessing of knowing her.

On April 6, 2025, the angels busied themselves once again, for the Lord called His precious Ernestine home in Seattle, Washington.

Ernestine leaves to cherish her love and memory: one devoted son, one daughter-in-law, four grandchildren, three great-grandchildren, two siblings, one niece, two nephews, and one great-nephew. She was preceded in death by her parents, one sister, her eldest son, and one grandson.

To honor Ernestine’s wishes, the family kindly asks for “White Flowers Only,” as they were her favorite.

Please review the Columbia Funeral Home website www.columbiafuneral.com for future information.

The family sincerely thanks you for your love, prayers, and support during this time.