Vernon Douglas Patrick

Vernon Douglas Patrick (known as VD), passed away at his residence in Altavista on Saturday, December 8, 2012. VD was born in Lynchburg on November 21, 1946, the eldest son of five siblings, to Mattie (Payne) Patrick of Uniondale, NY and the late Fredrick Douglas Patrick. He was a Uniondale HS graduate; engineering major at Farmingdale University; served in the USAF during the Vietnam era; received a Honorable Discharge upon completion of duty at the Elemendorf Air Force Base, Alaska. While in the military Vernon married Dorothy Tilley and she served as his devoted virtuous wife of 44 years. He is survived by his daughter, Sylvia (Patrick) Stone and husband Donald; grandson Ronald; three great grand children, Ramya, Ronald Jr. and RonDarius; three siblings, Florence Patrick Robinson (Herman), David Patrick, and Geraldine Patrick Duggan (Lloyd); and a host of nieces and nephews. Vernon was a member of Zion Cathedral in Freeport, NY. He joined the rankings of The Xerox Corporation in 1970 and retired as a Technician after 31 years. VD enjoyed collecting classic antique cars, playing in local tennis tournaments, bowling, and chess. His desire was to always return to his birth state, Virginia. His dream came true in 2011 when Vernon and his wife moved into their home, nestled on three acres of land in Altavista. Although only a short time of enjoyment in Altavista -- it was well worth it. “One day with the Lord is as a thousand years”. He will be greatly missed by his wife, his family, his friends, and especially his mom who always called him “her baby.” A funeral service will be conducted at 11:00 a.m., Saturday, December 15, 2012 at Finch and Finch Chapel, Altavista, hosted by Bishop Wilbert Butler and officiated by pastor Timothy De Suze of Roosevelt, New York, with burial to follow in Green Hill Cemetery. Military honors will be conducted by Altavista Memorial American Legion Post 36 and V.F.W Post 4165. A luncheon for the family and friends will follow the service at Faith Assembly Christian Center, 3777 Wards Rd., Altavista, VA 24517. The family will receive friends from 5-7:00 p.m., Friday at Finch & Finch Funeral and Cremation Service, Altavista.

Vernon Douglas Patrick

November 21, 1946 - December 8, 2012