Obituary of James William "Ace" Patterson

James William “Ace” Patterson, 75, of Howell Township passed away peacefully surrounded by his family on Friday, April 18, 2025 at Riverview Medical Center, Red Bank.  Ace was born at Fitkin Hospital in Neptune and spent his entire life in Howell Township.  He worked on his family’s dairy farm before beginning a 25-year career as a rural carrier with the United States Post Office, retiring in 2012.

A devoted fan of the Philadelphia Eagles and Phillies and more recently, the Pittsburgh Pirates, Ace also loved watching NASCAR and spending Saturday nights at Wall Stadium. He had a deep appreciation for music and cherished his summers in Manasquan, where he enjoyed relaxing on the beach and trying his luck at fishing.  He took great pride in maintaining his lawn and caring for his home.

Ace was a man of deep faith and a lifelong member of Ardena Baptist Church.  Over the years, he served in many roles including deacon, trustee, pulpit committee chair, choir member, worship leader, Bible study leader, cemetery secretary, and as a steadfast volunteer. It was also at the church where he met the love of his life, Susan.

Together, they shared 51 beautiful years of marriage, raised two wonderful children, and for the past thirteen years, Ace proudly answered to his favorite name, “Bubba.”

Ace was predeceased by his parents, William M. and Barbara (nee Graham) Patterson and his infant daughter.  He is survived by his wife, Susan (nee Schmidt) Patterson; two children, Tim Patterson and his wife, Kathleen, and Laura Hulick and her husband, Brian; two grandchildren, Ella Rose and Malcolm Ace; siblings, C. Robert "Bob" Patterson and his wife, Bonnie, Linda A. Dabroski and her husband, Charles, Carl R. Patterson and his wife, Laurie Anne, and Barbara L. Saker and her husband, Kyle; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and dear friends. 

A visitation will be held at the Clayton & McGirr Funeral Home, 100 Elton-Adelphia Road (Route 524), Freehold Township on Tuesday, April 22, 2025 from 3:00 to 7:00 PM.  Relatives and friends are invited to attend his 11:00 AM Funeral Service at Ardena Baptist Church, 593 Adelphia Road, Howell.  For those who cannot attend in person, the family invites you to participate via Webcast HERE. Interment will follow in the church cemetery.  For those who desire, memorial contributions may be made to the Missions Fund at the Church, HERE.  For information, directions or condolence messages to the family, visit www.claytonfuneralhome.com.