Dr. James Marlin Patton, Newport News, Virginia, passed away on Saturday, June 17, 2023. The son of the late James Henry and Edna Mae Patton and preceded in death by his sister Martha Ann Clarke.

He earned his baccalaureate degree in social psychology from Kentucky State University, a master's degree in special education from the University of Louisville, and a doctorate of education in higher education from Indiana University. Dr.  Patton devoted more than forty years to the education profession. He was a faith-filled Catholic and a long-time devoted member of St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Church. He was a member of the Hampton/Newport News Alumni Chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc.

Dr. James Patton is survived by his daughter Dr. Asha Patton Smith (Damaneon); his son Attorney Ade Patton (Jessica); grandsons Armon and Noah; and granddaughters, Kenzie and Campbell; his brother, Edward Lee Patton (Lorenzo); a nephew Darren Nealy (Erin), Dr. Lydia Pettis Patton, a special friend Lynda Burke, and a host of family and friends.

A Wake Service will be held from 6-7 p.m., Wednesday, June 28, 2023 at O. H. Smith & Son Funeral Home.  A Funeral Mass will be held at 2 p.m., Thursday, June 29, 2023 at St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Church, 230-33rd Street, Newport News.  O. H. Smith & Son Funeral Home is honored to serve the family.