Millard Edward Patterson

Millard Edward Patterson, 78, of Las Vegas Nevada passed away peacefully Tuesday February 17, 2026 at University Medical Center in Las Vegas. Millard, a U. S. Army Veteran fought a long courageous battle with multiple myeloma a result of his exposure to agent orange during his service in Vietnam. Millard affectionately known as "Mick" or "Pat" was born in Iredell County on September 27, 1947 to the late Fred M. Patterson and Fannie Cowan Patterson. He was a life long member of Mt Tabor Presbyterian Church in Cleveland, NC.

In 1965 he graduated top of his class at R. A. Clement High School in Cleveland, NC. Drafted in 1966 he served in Vietnam War. After service he attended Morehouse College in Atlanta, GA; Central Piedmont Community College and UNC - Charlotte in Charlotte, NC. He received a Bachelor of Science in Accounting and worked as a certified public accountant for years. In the 80's,

Mick moved to California briefly for 2 years before settling in Las Vegas which he proudly called home for 38 years. He had a strong work ethic as a dedicated public servant at Las Vegas Detention Center, Hoover Dam, and City of Las Vegas until retirement in 2018. Mick was humble with a heart of gold his love was unconditional and he prioritized family over everything. He was our family's steady pillar of advice, encouragement, intelligence, strength and wisdom. Known for his generous spirit he lived to help others and found joy in giving rather than receiving. Mick loved blues and jazz music. He always brought joy and laughter to every family gathering. He encouraged his nieces and nephews to further their education, save money and invest. He was deeply passionate about education, financial stability and black history.  He believed knowledge is the path to empowerment to secure a better future. Mick was dearly loved and will truly be missed his spirit and memories live on in our hearts!

He is predeceased by siblings: Iris Ozell Tucker, Ernest Patterson, Efford Patterson, Avery Patterson, David Patterson, Thomas Jerry Patterson and Linda Faye Patterson Smith.

He is survived by: sister, Alice Patterson Summers; Aunt Mamie Cowan Carruth; a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends; Sisters in law: Mildred Patterson, Mary Patterson and Nannie Patterson. Close friends: Deborah Culbertson, Phyllis Steelman and Iretha Mckinly

The family would like to give a special "Thank You" to his caregivers/chosen family for all of their devoted loving care. Sherry Cook, Barry Smith, Patricia Smith, Steven A Smith and niece Carolyn Tucker.

Memorial Service March 21, 2026 Mt Tabor Presbyterian Church 935 Mt Tabor Church Rd., Cleveland, NC 27013 with military honors.

Visitation: 12:30 pm-1:00 pm.  Service begins promptly at 1:00 pm Eulogy: Pastor Timothy Porter.

Repass following service in church fellowship center.

Hairston Funeral Home, Inc., is serving the family with sincere care and compassion.  Online condolences may be sent to; hairstonfh.com.

Please keep the family in your thoughts and prayers.

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