Vera Faye Patterson

Vera Faye Heidelberg Patterson, middle child of Rosa Walker and Bernard Heidelberg, was a force of nature, a dynamo whose life overflowed with love and creativity. Her home was adorned with beautiful flower beds, her pride and joy reflected her deep connection to nature. Vera's creative spirit extended into quilting, where she became a cherished member of three quilting groups. As a member of the Pacific Northwest African American Quilters (PNWAAQ), she was interviewed at a showing in Dunn Gardens and featured on the cover of the PNW Magazine (Seattle Times insert). Recently, she was learning the intricate art of Sashiko Quilting.

Her generous spirit was evident through her extensive volunteer work. Vera dedicated her time to numerous Archdiocese committees (Black Catholic Advisory Circle, Women's Commission) and at Immaculate Conception, where she most recently served on the Finance Committee. She also held leadership positions with the Knights of Peter Claver, Ladies Auxiliary, 3rd and 4th degrees.

Vera was also a trailblazer in her professional life, becoming the first Black postmaster for Kent, Washington. Her career with the United States Postal Service began in the late 1970s as a Distribution Clerk, and she worked her way up through progressively senior positions until she was promoted to postmaster.

Her interests were varied and exploded after she retired. She belonged to several book clubs and bridge clubs. She and her husband became snowbirds in 2020 when they purchased a home in Surprise, Arizona. Over the years, she has traveled to many countries; some of the more interesting locations included Belize, Dubai, Tanzania, Cancun, Barcelona, London, Paris, Marseille, Honduras, Cannes, Cozumel, and Monaco.

A proud Garfield High School Bulldog, Vera remained connected to other graduates of the school. She earned an Associate’s Degree from Highline Community College. She later earned a bachelor's degree from Seattle University, where she studied Public Affairs with an emphasis in Non-Profit Leadership.

Vera leaves behind her beloved husband, Ceaser Patterson III, daughter Lorraine Patterson-Harris (married to Anthony Harris), son Steven Patterson (married to Angie Patterson), stepson Fred Coleman, sister Bernadette Parker, and sisters-in-law Rosa Patterson, Severa Dowe and Deborah Patterson. She also cherished her five grandchildren: Rodney Stokes, Patricia Frias (married to Frank Frias), Naiyah Harris, Micaiah Patterson, and Chloe Harris. Her legacy includes the love of her great-grandchildren, Emilia Frias, Desmond Frias, and Sir Otis Frias, who affectionately called her GiGi. She was surrounded by nieces and nephews Kelly Lee, Karl York, Falona Joy, Katoya Grant, Leon Dowe, Michaelangelo Patterson, Kimylisha Lee, Nikkea Jordan, Denisha Baraka, and numerous other family members who held deep relationships with her. She and Ceaser were godparents to twelve children.

Vera was predeceased by her mother, Rosa L. Walker, father, Bernard Heidelberg, and brother, Bernard Heidelberg Jr.

A memorial service will be held at Immaculate Conception Church, 820 18th Ave, Seattle, 98122 on Saturday, 10/26/2024. Rosary at 9:30 AM, Mass at 10:30 AM, with a repast to follow onsite.

Interment Services, Monday, October 28 at Noon, Greenwood Memorial Park and Funeral Home, Renton, WA

Instead of flowers, donations to Fred Hutch – Lung Cancer Research are appreciated.