May 15, 2025, 74, Goldsboro —
Barry Wayne Patton, 74, left a void in the hearts of many on Thursday, May 15, 2025. Barry was born in Riverside California to the late Perry and Vivian Ann DeHart Patton on July 30, 1950.
Working in management as an engineer, Barry met his future wife, Kathy, at Carolina Turkeys in 1987. Quickly creating a lasting friendship and deep love, he resigned from his position in order to ask her out on a date. The two were married in 1989, and a thirty-six-year relationship of joy ensued.
Always putting others before himself, Barry was kind-hearted, chivalrous, and selfless. Dedicated to the happiness of his family, his main focus in life was caring for those he loved most. Home was wherever they were, and he took every opportunity to spend time with them.
Barry’s compassion towards others extended from family and friends to neighbors and strangers. A gentle soul, he was a considerate and thoughtful, always willing to do anything for anyone in need. Those who met Barry quickly found a generous and genuine friend. Even stray animals found compassion from Barry, as he would take each one in with the promise of finding them a happy home. Most of the time, that home was found with Barry and Kathy.
In years after retirement, Barry’s time was spent between their family farm in La Grange and their farm in West Virginia. Enjoying the simple pleasures in life, Barry’s time atop his tractor mowing grass was ranked near the top. Always keeping busy and wanting to be invested in the lives of his family, he would often run errands for his children just to offer his help and support. Though travel was not big on his list, a trip to Ireland and Scotland had always been a dream. Last year, he and Kathy were able to experience a two-week vacation there, enjoying each and every moment.
A service of love and remembrance will be held by the graveside at 3:00 p.m. on Monday, May 19, 2025 at Fairview Cemetery, La Grange. The family will receive friends following the service.
Barry is survived by his wife of over 36 years, Kathy Patton; children, Kari Patton Dewberry and husband, Blake, Kyle Woodard and wife, Jennifer, and Matthew Patton; grandchildren, Natalie, Blair, Cooper, Alyssa, Kayley, Austin, and Rosalie; and a sister, Carolyn Dean.
Online condolences may be expressed at www.rousefh.com. In lieu of flowers, please consider a contribution to the Lenoir County SPCA, PO Box 1481, Kinston, NC 28503. Arrangements are entrusted to Rouse Funeral Home, La Grange.
