Judene Patterson

Our dear sweet sister and aunt, Judene Patterson, passed away December 1, 2020 in American Fork, Utah.  She was born to goodly parents James H. and C. Faye Patterson on March 18, 1948.  She was the oldest of 5 children.

Judene was a resident of the Utah State Developmental Center (formally the Utah State Training School) for most of her 72 years on this earth. Over the years she developed many strong relationships and bonds with the residents and caregivers of USDC.  They were her family.

Judene enjoyed living in Raintree Apartment #6 with her fellow ladies.  She loved to go swimming, bowling, and shopping with her friends. She cherished family visits and was always happy to have them come to see her.  She had many boyfriends over the years and giggled when she was around them.  She enjoyed going to The Cottage for root beer floats.  She loved Christmas and especially the music.  She loved to play the guitar with Alison and sing songs with her.

One of Judene’s fondest memories was prior to the dedication of the Mount Timpanogos Temple, being able to participate in a special tour of the temple and then gathering in the Celestial Room with her mother, father and all her brothers and sisters. It was a day to remember and many tears were shed at that time.

The family wishes to thank the many staff members and caregivers at USDC who, over her lifetime took such loving and tender care of her.  We especially want to thank Debbie, Melissa, Varina and Alison who were her closest friends.  Words cannot express how much everyone at USDC were appreciated.

We also wish to thank the many Stakes and Wards in Utah County who sent their youth and their youth leaders to USDC each Sunday to assist getting the residents to and from Church services and each Wednesday for helping with the special needs Mutual.  Judene always looked forward to going to Church on Sunday when she could and loved the Wednesday night dances with the youth.  Thank you. Your devoted service blessed her life so much.

Judene is survived by her brothers and sisters, Douglas (Larie), Betsy (Mark), Tari Ann (Paul) and Richard (Cynthia) and countless nieces, nephews and friends.

Judene was preceded in death by her parents who welcomed her home with open arms. She will have so much to share with them and will now be able to walk, run and enjoy her unencumbered body.

There will be a private family funeral service on Friday, December 4, 2020 at 11:00am, with a family viewing one hour prior. Due to Covid-19 guidelines attendance at the services is by invitation only, however everyone is invited to watch the funeral services online. To watch the funeral service scroll to the bottom of this obituary page on Friday at 11:00am. The services will remain available to watch for 90 days.

Interment will be at the Elysian Burial Gardens.