Thomas "Tom" Patterson

Thomas “Tom” Patterson, 83, of South Cairo, NY, took his last breath on May 8, 2026, surrounded by his loving family. Tom was born on August 10, 1942, to Lyle and Ethel Patterson in Catskill, NY, raised in Earlton, NY and was a life-long resident of South Cairo. Tom was famous for his “Yosemite Sam” red mustache. A hardworking and dedicated man, he spent his life working as a mason and proudly owned and operated his own masonry business. He also honorably served his country in the United States Army. Tom was a devoted son, husband, father, brother, uncle, and friend to many. He is survived by his daughter, Barbara (Doug Emery); his son, Wayne Patterson; his brothers, David (Patty) Patterson, Billy (Joan) Patterson, Ray (Vickie) Patterson, and Gary (Jane) Patterson; sisters-in- law Arline Patterson, Doris Patterson, and Joan Walker, and brother-in-law Gerald “Butch” Lampman; along with many beloved nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends. He was predeceased by his loving wife of 45 years, Jane (Lampman) Patterson; his brothers, Lyle and Donald; his sister, Sally; and his parents. Tom was a lifelong sports fan and proudly cheered for the NY Yankees and the New England Patriots. He enjoyed hunting, trapping, and spending time watching the wildlife in his backyard, especially the does he called his “girls.” A passionate motorsports enthusiast, Tom raced snowmobiles on oval tracks before becoming crew chief for the sleds of Bobby Mallory and R.L. Cooke. Racing remained a central part of his life for decades. He owned and served as crew chief for the mini sprint and 360 sprint cars driven by his son Wayne. Tom also owned the renowned #33 360 sprint car team that competed on the Empire Super Sprints and United Racing Club tours. Under his leadership, drivers Jessica Zemken-Friesen, Kramer Williamson, and Doug Emery consistently ranked in the top 10. Traveling throughout NY, NJ, PA, and Canada with the race team, Tom formed countless lifelong friendships within the racing community. Tom was equally dedicated to his community. He coached Cairo Little League, Cairo Babe Ruth, Catskill Babe Ruth All-Star 13-year-old, and Catskill Babe Ruth All-Star 14–15-year-old teams. He led the Cairo Babe Ruth team to the 1977 Greene County Championship and the All-Star 14–15-year-old team to the 1979 District 1 Championship. Tom also served as Assistant District 1 Commissioner for Babe Ruth baseball and was recognized by the Catskill Babe Ruth League for his many years of hard work and dedication to the organization. Above all else, Tom treasured his family and the time spent with them. He didn’t miss an event involving his children, faithfully supporting them at sporting events, dance performances, sprint car races, and church activities. Calling hours will be held on Thursday, May 14, from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at Richards Funeral Home in Cairo, New York, with a service immediately following. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Greene County Senior Angels Fund or the Greene County Veterans Relief Fund.

Thomas "Tom" Patterson

August 10, 1942 - May 8, 2026