Jerry K. Patterson, 70, of Rock Island, Illinois, passed away Friday, September 4, 2026, at his home.

A memorial service will be held at 12 p.m. Monday, September 14, 2026, at Wheelan-Pressly Funeral Home and Crematory, 201 E. 4th Avenue, Milan, Illinois. Visitation will be held two hours prior from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. Monday at the funeral home. Inurnment with military honors will be in the Rock Island National Cemetery, Arsenal Island. Memorials may be made to the Edgewood Baptist Church Youth Program or to the family.

Jerry was born on March 20, 1956, the son of David Lloyd and Elvera Clara (Johnson) Patterson at St. Anthony’s Hospital in Rock Island, Illinois. He grew up in Reynolds, Illinois and Pleasant Valley, Iowa. He worked at John Deere before enlisting in the U.S. Navy. There he served in the Submarine Service where he enjoyed many challenging tours. Jerry was a life member of the U.S. Submarine Vets Inc., the DAV, and the Milan American Legion.

During the last years of his life he enjoyed many hobbies including writing, reading, always learning, and watching his favorite sports teams. Jerry was very generous and always encouraged others. His strong faith in Jesus and witness were visible in how he lived.

Jerry is survived by his loving wife, Cristina; his son, Shaun; his sister, Jean (Leonard) Chard; his brother, John (Tracy) Patterson; and his nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents and his son, Christopher Patterson.

Online condolences and memories may be shared at www.wheelanpressly.com.