Raland "Pat" James Patterson, age 81, of Blue Ridge, Georgia passed away on January 14, 2025 at his home.

Raland was born in Copperhill, TN. He graduated from West Fannin High School in 1961. After high school, Raland attended North Georgia College. He was drafted into the United States Army and that draft notice set his life on a fulfilling career in the military. Raland earned his bachelor's degree and an MBA while serving his country. Raland is a retired Army Lieutenant Colonel with twenty-two years of active duty. He served in Vietnam as a helicopter pilot from 1970-1971. His awards included the Distinguished Flying Cross, Bronze Star with an oak leaf cluster and fourteen air medals. Raland's second career was as a Regional Agent for a financial planning firm in Europe. In his later life, he authored twelve books and hosted a cable tv show, Those Who Serve, bringing awareness and appreciation to the wonderful men and women who have served our country with honor.

Raland is survived by his wife of 29 years, Ann Patterson. His children, Sara Patterson, Rhys Patterson, and Michael Patterson (wife, Megan). His two stepsons, Bill Tuohig and Randy Touhig. Grandchild, Ariana. Sister, Paulette (husband, Johnny) and many nieces, nephews, and cousins. He is preceded in death by his parents, Edd and Louise Patterson, grandparents, Roy and Dessie (Campbell) Colwell and George Lester and Amanda Louise (Weeks) Patterson; Siblings, Patsy Farley and Charles "Chuck" Patterson; granddaughter, Zoe Verbeten.

Funeral services were held on Saturday, January 18, 2025 at 2:00 p.m. from the Akins-Cobb Blue Ridge Chapel with Tim Hollingshead officiating. Eulogies were provided by Amy Hollingshead and Bill Tuohig. Full military honors were rendered by the North Georgia Honor Guard. Interment followed in the Copper Ridge Memory Gardens with the following serving as pallbearers: Tim Mercier, Luke Whitener, James Sluder, Johnny McKinney, Anthony Stanley, and Rev. Al Patterson. The family visited with friends at the funeral home prior to the service from 12:30 until 2:00 p.m.

Condolences may be sent to the family online at www.akinscobb.com

Akins-Cobb Funerals & Cremations was in charge of these arrangements.