of Searcy, AR
July 1, 1918 - April 3, 2014
Leon Van Patten, 95, passed away Wednesday, April 2, 2014. He was the second son of I.B. and Linnie Ray Van Patten.
He was preceded in death by his parents, brothers, Irvin B. Van Patten, Dale Van Patten, and Herman Van Patten, his wife Nannie Bell (Nancy) Maddox Van Patten, his son Robert Lee Van Patten, and his granddaughter Sarah Elizabeth Gilliam.
His survivors include daughters Mira Anne Suddreth (James) of Culpeper, Virginia, Patty Jo Williams (Philip), and Nancy Lynn Van Patten of Searcy, Arkansas. Also surviving are eight grandchildren, ten great grandchildren, and one great-great grandchild.
He proudly served his country in the Army during World War II. He was a member of First United Methodist Church, Searcy, Arkansas. As a charter member of the White County Historical Society, he served as treasurer for 22 years.
Visitation will be on Sunday, April 6, 2014, at Roller Daniel Funeral Home from 3 5 p.m. Services will be on Monday, April 7, 2014, at First United Methodist Church at 10:00 a.m. Burial will follow at Oak Grove Cemetery with full military honors.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials to First United Methodist Church or a charity of your choice.
For online guestbook, www.rollerfuneralhomes.com
Sign Guestbook
8 Condolence(s)
Beth Marsh Jackson
Monday, April 7, 2014
Thoughts and prayers with the family.
Tonya Morris
Sunday, April 6, 2014
Thoughts and prayers are with you.
Barbara & Rodger Duncan
Sunday, April 6, 2014
Rodger grew up in Searcy and brags about what a wonderful person Leon was. I only knew him for perhaps 30 or 35 years but I completely agree with his feelings about Leon and the entire Van Patten family. Our prayers are with the entire family.
Angela Johnson
Sunday, April 6, 2014
My brother and I lived across the street from Mr. Van Patten for six years. I spoke to Miss Nancy a few times in that time period... so I didn't know you all that well, but I loved seeing Mr. Van Patten sitting on the front porch on a nice day. Or taking a walk with one of his daughters. We'd always wave like old friends. I could tell he was a special man. I moved recently and happened to hear of his passing through a mutual acquaintance on Facebook... was so saddened by this news.
My thoughts and prayers are with your family. <3
Anita Fuller
Saturday, April 5, 2014
May I say "ditto" to what Pat and Eddie said.
When Mother (Corinne Hart) didn't know some past Searcy history, I could always count on Leon to know.
Condolences to all his family and many, many friends.
Pat & Eddie Best
Friday, April 4, 2014
The loss of Leon is like a library burning. He was a walking history book with a great memory and a loving heart. He quietly helped many people without seeking recognition and was a good friend. He exemplified The Greatest Generation. We send our deepest condolences to his family.
Bill & Trudy Holub
Friday, April 4, 2014
Indeed, our " Best Man ".
May Leon now enjoy eternal life with his beloved Nancy.
One day we will all be together again in that magnificent Kingdom of Heaven.
God rest his soul. God bless the family of Leon Van Patten.
Bill & Trudy Holub
Angie. Van Patten
Thursday, April 3, 2014
Hope all your best memories of him offer some comfort. Love and hugs, Angie