Alabama lawmakers offer condolences, remember colleague Jim Patterson

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Jim and Susan Patterson
Jim Patterson and his wife Susan. [Photo courtesy of Jim Patterson Facebook]

Meridianville-Republican, state Rep. Jim Patterson died from a heart attack on Monday. He was 67.

Following the news of his passing, his colleagues from across the state posted messages on social media in his memory:

State Rep. Will Ainsworth:

The state lost a great man today. Jim Patterson loved life and I was fortunate to call him a good friend. He is having fun in Heaven right now.

State Rep. Cam Ward:

I am absolutely heartbroken about the passing of Rep Jim Patterson. He was a champion of the autism community and a good public servant for his district.

State Rep. Jack Williams:

Stunned and saddened to hear about the sudden and unexpected death of my friend and colleague Representative Jim Patterson this afternoon. Jim was a strong voice in Montgomery for those people and causes he believed in. Today we lost one of the really good guys – a man who remained true to his convictions throughout his legislative service. My prayers are with the family of Jim Patterson

State Rep. Nathaniel Ledbetter:

The Alabama House Republican Caucus and each of its members will feel the loss of our colleague, Representative Jim Patterson, for some time to come. Rep. Patterson was defined by the hard work he devoted to serving his constituents, the thoughtfulness with which he approached each issue, and the way he tackled problems, bills, and initiatives about which he felt strongly. These traits were demonstrated very publicly during his successful effort to pass important autism therapy legislation that will positively affect the lives of children and families across Alabama for years to come.”

State Rep. Chris Blackshear:

When you’re the new kid on the block you always hope someone will take you under their wings and help guide you. When I first went to Montgomery, Jim Patterson was one of those guys. He sat on the same hall as I did and made sure to check on me everyday. He was a great person, with a huge heart who fought tirelessly for things he believed in. We lost ‘Big Jim’ unexpectedly this afternoon. While we know he’s in a better place, he leaves shoes too big to fill. Thank You, Jim!

State Sen. Paul Sanford:

Jim Patterson passed away today, please pray for the Patterson family