Jack Benson Patterson

The family of Jack Benson Patterson, Sr. is sad to announce his passing at the age of 85 on July 4, 2023 in his home in Stafford, VA. Jack was born to parents Albert and Agnes Patterson. He grew up in Phenix City, AL, but was a long time Stafford County resident. He married his high school sweetheart, Kay Shearouse, in 1957.

Jack graduated from the University of Alabama in 1960 and earned his LLB in 1962. He began his legal career in private practice law and went on to serve as the Assistant U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Alabama from 1967 to 1969. He then had a distinguished career as a U.S. government attorney for 30 years, retiring from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms in January of 1998. Jack was the recipient of numerous awards including the U.S. Treasury Meritorious Service Award for his outstanding contribution to the formulation and implementation of national and international firearms, explosives and arson laws under the jurisdiction of the U.S. Department of the Treasury. He played a vital role in international conferences on crime and was the chief expert for the U.S. delegation on firearms and explosives laws. While serving with the Aquia Harbour Property Owners Board of Directors, Jack played a major role in legal research and his expertise was essential in the creation of the Aquia Harbour Police Department.

Jack was a loving and caring father, grandfather and partner to his wife, Kay. He enjoyed playing guitar, fishing with his children, and was a well-studied historian, particularly regarding Native American history, projectile points and other artifacts. In retirement, he was fortunate to have shared extensive travels with his wife to many destinations domestic and abroad. He had an amusing and ironic sense of humor and enjoyed a comedic moment. In recent years, he battled several medical issues. He faced those challenges with no complaint and stayed strong until the very end.

Jack is survived by his wife, Kay Patterson, and four children, Jack Patterson, Jr. (wife Ellen Patterson), Jeff Patterson (former wife Lisa Green), Scott Patterson (wife Cindy Patterson) and Kimbra Benson (husband Robert Benson). He was a grandfather to seven grandchildren. In addition to his parents, Jack was predeceased by three brothers, a sister and a daughter-in-law, Sharon Patterson.

A memorial service will be held on July 10, 2023 at Ebenezer United Methodist Church in Stafford, VA. Visitation will begin at 10:00 am, with a memorial service at 11:00 am, and reception following.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a memorial donation to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital at www.stjude.org or Ebenezer United Methodist Church at www.ebenezerumc.org.