Mary Catherine Patterson

Mary Catherine Kaylor Patterson was born on June 6, 1946, in Reidsville, NC to the late John William Martin and Helen Kaylor.  Her earthly journey ended on Tuesday, June 3, 2025, when she departed this life for her eternal home with the Lord.

She was preceded in death by her ever-loving stepmother, Nannie Jones Martin, former husband, Russell Edward McDonald; sisters, Billie Jean Kaylor Jackson and Maxine Kaylor Thomas, and nephew, Troy Martin Jackson.

Mary Catherine graduated from Booker T. Washington High School in Reidsville, NC, in 1964.  She graduated from North Carolina Agricultural & Technical State University with a Bachelor of Science degree in English in 1971.  Demonstrating her strong passion for education, she continued her studies, taking additional coursework at Pembroke State University.  After graduating, she was a Language Arts and English teacher in North Carolina, Maryland, and the New York City school systems.  She had a beautiful career dedicated to education and the welfare of children and families.  As a member of the Black Panther Party in the early 70’s during the Civil Rights Movement she continued to “serve the people” and the rights of the under-resourced.  She enjoyed reading, history, and American literature and had a witty sense of humor.

Mary Catherine joined Bible Way Church in Danville, VA, under the leadership of Apostle Lawrence G. Campbell Sr., where she remained a member until her time of death.  She was baptized on May 27, 1985, and received the gift of the Holy Ghost on November 11, 1985.  As a member of Bible Way Church, she was a part of the Progressive Auxiliary and could often be seen reading the church announcements, scripture, and various other capacities, serving the Lord.  Her belief in God set the foundation for her devotion to her family.  

Mary Catherine leaves to cherish her memory her daughters: Norma Leila Faye McDonald and Katia Yvrose Kaylor; her granddaughter, Katherinn Faye Johnson; her aunt, Betty Mills (James); special niece, Michelle Johnson (Sean); special nephews, Jerry Kaylor and Joe Thomas Jr. (Diane); special friends, Theresa Troxler (Robert) and Clara Bostic and a host of additional family and friends. 

A Memorial Service will be held at 1:30 pm on Saturday, June 21, 2025, at Cornerstone Christian Center, 516 N. Scales Street, Reidsville, NC.  

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