During my interview with Johnnie Mae Wright Davis (1934-2021), I gathered a wealth of information about our family history. For this article, I’ve chosen to focus on John Patterson’s (1885-1964) story. John Patterson holds a special place in my family tree. He was the brother of my great-grandmother, Mary Liza Patterson Foster (1875-1914). Their parents, Daniel and Sylvia Patterson, made the journey from North Carolina to Mississippi after enslavement, building a new life for their family. John would later move to Mississippi County, Missouri, where he lived out his final years.
John Patterson passed away on November 26, 1946, in Wyatt, and he was laid to rest in a local cemetery. In that same cemetery is the grave of Johnnie Mae Wright Davis, a relative who shared precious memories of John with me. Johnnie Mae was my father, Robert ("Bobby") Foster's (1938-1988) first cousin, and her recollections helped fill in key details about John Patterson’s life.
Johnnie Mae had the privilege of meeting John Patterson and described him as medium-built but burdened with severe arthritis that left him crippled. Despite this challenge, John remained a memorable figure in the family. Johnnie Mae also shared a treasured photograph of John, adding a visual connection to the stories I had gathered. Looking at that photo, I noticed a remarkable resemblance between John and other family members like Uncle Buddy. In fact, I even share some of John's features myself, particularly in the shape of my nose.
To further illustrate John's story, I included a copy of his original death certificate in this article. This vital record provides key details about his passing and offers valuable insights into his life and legacy.
John Patterson’s life is a testament to resilience — navigating the hardships of post-slavery migration and building a legacy that continues to inspire. My ongoing research into the Patterson family roots has led me to focus on their origins in North Carolina. While I’ve made great strides in tracing formerly enslaved ancestors on my mother’s side, the search for Daniel and Sylvia Patterson’s past continues to unfold.
Each new discovery is a reminder of the strength and courage that defines our family’s journey. By sharing these stories, I hope to inspire others to explore their own family histories and honor the lives of those who came before us.
FamilySearch Memories: Johnnie Mae Wright Davis (1934-2021) Interview
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