Frances Patterson

Frances P. Patterson, 80, of Jackson died Friday, May 21, 2010, at Southeast Missouri Hospital in Cape Girardeau.

She was born July 14, 1929, in DuQuoin, Ill., to Clarence H. and Gladys Marie Summers Cook. Frances was married to Homer D. Holt in 1949. He preceded her in death in 1960. She then married Frank Adrian "Pancake" Patterson in May 1970. She was preceded in death by him in 1979.

A friendly face and warm smile and a heart of gold were just a few of the many wonderful virtues Mrs. Patterson bestowed upon every individual who was fortunate enough to meet her. Mrs. Patterson rang the bell every year from Thanksgiving until Christmas Eve for the past 30 years collecting money for the Salvation Army so that others may not need for anything. She volunteered most of her life selflessly for the sake of others. This very special lady has been called to serve in a much higher position since her father who art in heaven called her home. Mrs. Patterson will be deeply missed and forever remembered not only for the unconditional love she had for everyone she knew but also for the gentle spirit that radiated from her every act.

She is survived by one son, Roger (Sue) Holt of Pinkneyville, Ill., two sons, Homer (Pam) Holt of Decatur, Ill., and Brent (Tonya) Holt of Cape Girardeau; three daughters, Brenda (Tony) Sample, Karen Biggerstaff and Geneva Masters and Matt Sanders all of Jackson; one sister, Revennia (Wally) Flat of DuQuoin, Ill., 21 grandchildren, 31 great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandchild.

She was preceded in death by her parents.

Friends may call from 4 to 8 p.m. Sunday at Ford and Sons Mount Auburn Funeral Home in Cape Girardeau.

The funeral will be at 10 a.m. Monday at the funeral home, with Majors Ben and Beth Stilwell officiating.

Burial will follow in Sunset Memorial Park in DuQuoin.

Memorial contributions may be given to the Salvation Army, 701 Good Hope St., Cape Girardeau, MO 63703.

Online condolences may be made at www.fordandsonsfuneralhome.com.