Barbara Jean Patterson

A Life of Faith Love and Devotion

It is with a heavy heart that we remember the life of Barbara Jean Patterson, who left us unexpectedly on Thursday, June 18, 2026, due to a heart attack at her home, where she shared countless memories with her sister, JoAnn. Their bond was truly special, as they were not just sisters but also best friends who found joy in each other’s presence. This sudden loss has created a deep ache in the hearts of all her family and friends.

Barbara was born on June 22, 1947, at the University of Michigan Hospital in Ann Arbor, Michigan, to her loving parents, Robert L. Ford Sr. and Susie M. Brown. She embraced her Christian faith from a young age, celebrating many milestones with her family.

Growing up in Romulus and later moving to Ypsilanti, Michigan, the family thrived, especially after her devoted stepfather, Sam Brown, married her mother and brought them to a beautiful home in Ainsworth Circle Subdivision. Barbara took great pride in her accomplishments, graduating from Ypsilanti High School in the Class of 1966 and finding her place in the workforce at the Ford Motor plant in Saline. She later made the significant decision to move to Detroit with her husband, where they built a loving family.

Her passion for her faith was evident as she actively participated in her brother Pastor Robert L. Ford’s church, Greater Faith Transition Inc. contributing her time and energy to various church initiatives. Barbara shared a beautiful life with her husband, Troy Patterson, before they divorced. And together they welcomed three wonderful children: Troy Jr., Catrina, and Keisha. Though they faced the tragic loss of their firstborn son, Troy Jr., who left behind his only daughter, Myah Patterson, Barbara’s spirit and love continue to resonate within her family and community.

Barbara always showed thoughtfulness and compassion to those she encountered, offering a helping hand, a solid ear, or words of wisdom. Barbara loved and adored her family and had an especially soft spot for her mother, and her mother had a special soft spot for her as well. She absolutely adored her children and her grandchildren, even when her failing health wouldn’t allow her to spend as much time as she desired.  

Barbara is survived by her loving mother, Susie M. Brown; her two daughters, Catrina Grandison (Dewhite) and Keisha Patterson; her two brothers, Pastor Robert L. Ford (Dorothy) and John E. Ford (Sharon); and her sister, JoAnn Bell. She also leaves behind three granddaughters and two great grandchildren, along with a host of cousins, nieces, nephews, and friends. 

Barbara is preceded in death by her two fathers, Robert L. Ford Sr. and Samuel Brown, and three sisters, Betty J. Mayes, Linda L. Ford, and Samella Brown Baker. And especially her son Troy E, Patterson, two grandmothers, Lucinda Wells and Elizabeth Ford and a host of Aunts, Uncles, cousins. 

“Well done good and faithful servant.”

Matthew 25:21

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