Ernest Patterson

Ernest Riley "Pops" Patterson, age 84, of Enid, Oklahoma, passed away on November 21, 2024, at Mercy Hospital in Oklahoma City. He was born on April 16, 1940, in Grove, Oklahoma, to Ernest Granderson Patterson and Josephine Ophilia (Jones) Patterson. Pops lived a full and rewarding life, leaving a legacy of love, laughter, hard work, and "collecting". He was very proud to be a Cherokee Citizen through his mother's family.

Pops graduated from Grove High School in 1958 and married Michele "Mickey" Cochrane, in 1959. They had two sons, Wade Patterson and John Gaines. Throughout his life, Ernest worked as a dedicated meat market manager and butcher in northeast Oklahoma, spending many years honing his craft. In 1993, he moved to Enid to be near his kids. He continued his career in Alva before retiring from 4-T's IGA in Hennessey in 2005.

Pops was a proud and beloved father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. He is survived by his son Wade and his wife Cheryl Patterson, grandchildren Kayci (Chris) Jantz and Kyler Patterson, and great-grandchildren Makoy and Madox Jantz. Pops is also survived by his son John W. H. Gaines and his grandchildren Reid and Rylee. He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Dillon Patterson.

As he requested, his cremation arrangements are entrusted to Ladusau-Evans Funeral Home and Crematory. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Enid SPCA or a charity of your choice in Pops' honor.

The family wishes to extend special thanks to all those in the medical community who worked with Pops over the last 4 months, including the ICU team at Integris (shout out to Tat), the Commons skilled nursing and PT/OT teams, St. Mary's 4th floor team, and the Mercy LTACH team. You made a huge difference in his life, and he was so grateful for all you did for him.

His memory will live on through the many lives he touched with his kindness, generosity, and sense of humor. Rest in peace Pops. You will be forever loved and missed.

A Celebration of Life will be held at The Grace Place, 802 S. Cleveland (Enid), on Sunday, December 1st from 1:30-3:30 (come & go). Family and friends will gather to share memories, play cards, and honor Pops' legacy.