Richard Allen Patterson

Smsgt Richard Allen Patterson "Sgt Patt," 71, of Bryant passed away on Dec. 25, 2012 with his family by his side. A very distinguished military career of 28 years in the Air Force, saw tours of duty in Thailand, Korea and England. It was in Norwich, England where he met his future wife Linda Crome. She was the love of his life and her family welcomed the "Yank" into their home with open arms. Many a weekend in the 70s was spent in the Tuckswood Pub in Norwich with brother-in-laws, John, Tony, David and Bernard. It was not uncommon for Linda or one of her sisters to pull them all out at closing time as they had conveniently lost track of time. After his military career in the Air Force ended in the mid 80s a new chapter of his life began with Linda in Kansas City, Mo. He worked for Raytheon for many years enjoying his time around the military personnel stationed in the area. In 1998 his beloved wife Linda passed away. Soon after, he was diagnosed with emphysema. At that point he decided to move to Bryant and spend the rest of his life with his son Michael and his family. He was extremely proud of the grandkids Gareth and Gavin and loved bragging on them to anyone that stopped by or called. His neighbors loved him dearly and would visit often; their kids called him "paw" or "Mr. Patt" and enjoyed raiding his candy jar. Richard was preceded in death by his beloved English rose, Linda as well as his parents Joseph and Rita. He leaves behind a loving son, Michael; daughter-in-law, Nicola; grandchildren, Gareth and Gavin; sister, Melanie and her husband, Tim; sister-in-laws Cheryll, Sheila and Thelma and her, husband Tony, as well as numerous nieces and nephews. Family visitation will be held on Friday, Dec. 28, 2012 from 6-8 p.m. at Dial and Dudley Funeral Home in Bryant 501-847-9099. In lieu of flowers a donation to the Wounded Warrior Project or Fischer House Foundation in the memory of "Sgt Patt" would be appreciated. To sign online guest book visit www.dialanddudleyfuneralhome.com.