Donnie Ray Patton

Donnie Ray Patton, age 72, of Brighton, Michigan died suddenly from a fall while working at his farm home North of Cave-in-Rock by Suits Hill. Donnie was born and raised around the Sparks Hill area near Cave-in-Rock on March 29, 1943, to the late Lawrence Thurston and Ula (Reed) Patton. On June 25, 1966 he married the former Alaunda (Austin) who survives. Donnie owned and operated a construction firm for many years in Michigan. Donnie loved being outside, riding 4 wheelers, building things, and studying Genealogy, but he especially loved playing guitar and singing. He had a passion for bringing together his family and friends. Whether it was hosting 50 plus family and friends for Thanksgiving dinner, or putting up a new door for a niece, he was never happier than when he was serving others. Donnie was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend. He will leave a great absence in the lives of all that had the pleasure of knowing him.

He is survived by his wife of 49 plus years, Alaunda, a son, Greg (Brenda) Patton, of St. Louis, Mo, a daughter, Angela (Danny) Fitchett of Brighton, MI, 5 grandchildren, Austin and Joelle Patton, Addison, Payton and Nash Fitchett. 3 Brothers, Garcia (Thelma) Patton of Xenia, Ohio, Cecil (Van) Patton of Cave-in-Rock, and Billy (Sandy) Patton of Benton, KY, 2 sisters, Ethna (Bill) Joyce of Alton, IL and Margaret (Ross) Barber of San Jose, CA, a sister in law, Donna Sue Austin of Prattville, AL. He was preceded in death by a brother, Everett (Mildred) Patton and 3 sisters, Monav (Tommy) Donithan, Corena (Bud) Schutt and Shelba (Jim) Franklin, and brother-in-law, Jim Austin.

Visitation for Donnie will be on Wednesday, December 9, 2015 at the Cox & Son Funeral Home in Ridgway from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM. Visitation will continue on Thursday, December 10, 2015 at 10:00 AM at the Leamington Community Church and his funeral will immediately follow starting at 11:00 AM. Rev. Arthur Austin, Jr. and Rev. Lee Fricker will officiate. Entombment will follow at the Mt. Zion Cemetery north of Cave-in-Rock.

You may leave a note of comfort to the family at www.coxandson.com