Billie Joe Patterson

Billie Joe Patterson, 93, of Marshall, Michigan passed away peacefully on Saturday, January 27, 2024, at his home following a short hospital stay. 

Billie Joe was born on March 22, 1930, in Truman, Arkansas. He attended Marshall High School, was an all-state running back on the football team and graduated in 1947. 

Following high school, Billie Joe enlisted in the US Navy, at the rate of Boatswains Mate assigned to the Light Cruiser, USS Juneau CL-119 (3rd). After serving his country honorably, he returned to Marshall. On September 16, 1961, Billie Joe married the love of his life Roberta “Bobbie” Storr and built 61 years of legacy and memories together.

He went on to become a Marshall City Police officer, before joining the Calhoun County Sheriff Department where he promoted through the ranks to Captain. He served as Undersheriff for Sheriff Lieber and was acting Sheriff for six months. Billie Joe later served as Chief Probation Officer when selected to run the first ever 10th District Court probation department, a new concept in corrections and court supervision of offenders that led to higher rates of compliance with court orders & bond conditions, and meaningful reentry into the workforce or society in general, until he retired.

Billie Joe was a member of the Marshall Country Club, and the Marshall Moose Lodge 676 for more than 50 years. He enjoyed hunting, fishing and golf, even had a Hole-In-One. More than anything though, Billie Joe loved following his son and grandchildren to their many sporting events. His humor and infectious laugh will leave a trail of smiles in his wake. 

Billie Joe is survived by his loving wife of 61 years, Roberta K. Patterson; daughter, Kathryn (John) Wheatley; son, William (Mary) Patterson; grandchildren, Will (Casandra), Blake, Amanda, and John Michael; as well as 4 great grandchildren. 

He is preceded in death by his mother, Thelma Patterson, brothers, Charles Eugene Patterson and Leon Patterson. Father-in-law, Fred (Ruth) Storr; uncles, Dube Rodgers, Steve Rodgers, and Raymond Rodgers. 

Arrangements have been entrusted to Kempf Family Funeral and Cremation Services, 723 US Hwy 27 N, Marshall, MI 49068. Visitation will be held Friday February 2, 2024, from 11:00 am to 12:30 pm with the funeral services beginning at 12:30 pm, Chaplain Jim Gysel, Calhoun County Sheriff Office officiating. Burial will follow at St Mary’s Cemetery in Marshall.

In lieu of flowers please consider a memorial contribution to the Marshall Moose Lodge 676, 1238 S Kalamazoo Ave, Marshall, MI 49068.