Ann Hicks Patton
Ann Hicks Patton, a beloved mother, grandmother, and dedicated professional, passed away peacefully at 92 at Morning Pointe of Powell. Her life was a rich tapestry of personal and professional milestones that spanned decades, impacting everyone she met.
Born Sept. 23, 1932, in Clinton, Tennessee, Ann was raised by her father, George Hicks. As a young girl, her adventurous spirit and resilience shone brightly when she traveled alone by train to spend the summers in Detroit with her mother, Helen Hood.
Ann graduated from Clinton High School and pursued higher education at Tennessee Wesleyan College, earning an associate degree in general arts. She was a member of Sigma Iota Chi and was chosen as the Phi Sigma Nu fraternity’s Sweetheart.
Her career began in Oak Ridge at Oak Ridge Associated Universities, where she held various roles over 42 years, eventually becoming the corporate secretary of the ORAU Board of Directors. During her time there, she developed lifelong friendships, including with members of the “Clinton carpool,” a group of coworkers who commuted together for more than 30 years.
Ann’s personal life was equally fulfilling. In 1955, she married Harry Patton. Their love story led to 62 years of marriage, two children, and five cherished grandchildren. Together they built a life of love and service to Clinton, being actively engaged in the community and their church, St. Mark UMC.
Ann was a woman of warmth, intelligence, and humor, whose life was defined by her devotion to her family, her career, and her community. Her legacy will continue to inspire all who were fortunate enough to know her.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Harry Patton; her parents, George Hicks and Helen Swaggerty Matsche; and her brother, David Hood. She is survived by her children, Jenny Stripling (Mel) of Chattanooga and Gene Patton (Mandy) of Knoxville; her five grandchildren, Molly Patton Hill (Trevor), Beth Ann Stripling, Riley Patton, Wes Stripling (Jenna), and Rhett Patton; her brother, Bob Hood (Ruby) of Roanoke, Virginia; and many others who considered her a “bonus mom.”
The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the staff of Morning Pointe of Powell for their care and support over the past four years.
Visitation was held Sunday, Jan. 12, 2025, from 2 to 4 p.m. at Holley-Gamble Funeral Home. A celebration of Ann’s life took place Monday, Jan. 13, 2025, at 11 a.m. at St. Mark United Methodist Church, and was officiated by the Rev. Dave Grant. The interment followed at Sunset Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to St. Mark United Methodist Church, 252 N. Main St., Clinton, TN 37716.
Rest in peace, Ann. You will be deeply missed and fondly remembered.
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