Thomas (Tom) Roberts Patterson

Thomas (Tom) Roberts Patterson of Amarillo, Texas, passed away peacefully on September 25th, 2026. Tom was born to Florry and Virgil Patterson on February 24, 1937.

Tom was a former student of Southern Methodist University and a graduate of the University of Michigan with a business degree. Tom worked in banking at First National Bank and started Security National Bank before being asked by a member of the community to shift to the role of director of the Amarillo Chamber of Commerce, where he used his ability to cultivate relationships to benefit the community. An accomplishment in that role was establishing the Annual Chamber Barbeque, an event made up of his favorite food.

Tom served on numerous non-profit and civic boards throughout his career.

Upon retirement, Tom had more time for the things he loved the most (besides a good rack of ribs): fishing in beautiful places, golfing, woodworking in his garage, visiting the Red River cabin, bird watching, hunting, lunch bunch lunches, smoking cigars, and water-coloring glimpses of his outdoor experiences.

Tom was often the life of the party, captivating audiences with his knack for telling jokes and stories.

Tom loved Michigan Football. During football season, Saturdays were spent cheering on the Wolverines from his back porch. Win or lose, game day was sacred. It was known not to bother Tom when the Michigan game was on. It made for great rivalry banter with friends and family. GO Blue!

Tom loved his family and friends fiercely and was always the first to tell them how proud he was of them and their achievements.

Tom is survived by his wife, Hilda Henderson Patterson; his sister, Emily Pantaleoni, children, Penny Patterson Massey, Ann Patterson George (Craig) Bill Patterson, and Jennifer Jordan Akerman (John). He was “Dad” and “Piyou” to his grandchildren, Shelby Massey (Katt), Katie Akerman Joseph (Jerry), Madison Akerman, and Jordan Akerman. His great-grandchildren, Maudie Massey, Mobley Massey, the newest addition, Sophia Grace Joseph, and a host of precious nieces and nephews, all of whom were the apple of his eye.

Services for Tom will be Thursday, October 1st at 11:00 AM at St. Andrews Episcopal Church, following a private family burial.

In lieu of flowers, please donate to your favorite organization in Tom’s honor.