Katherine “Kay” Lee Patterson

Memorial services for Katherine “Kay” Lee Patterson, 35, Lawrence, will be held at 2:00 p.m. Friday, January 15, 2021 at Warren-McElwain Mortuary in Lawrence. Kay passed away on Saturday, January 2, 2021 at her home. Please be aware that due to COVID-19 and safety precautions, we are asking her loved ones to please respect and comply with social distancing and must wear a mask.

Katherine L. Patterson was born on June 15, 1985 in Hiratsuka, Japan, the daughter of William and Kumiyo (Hara) Patterson, the youngest of three sisters where she grew up speaking Japanese as her first language. When she was 6 and a half years old, her family moved to Lawrence KS where she attended Hillcrest Elementary School. This school was a start to her blossoming journey as she attended the ESL program, meeting many friends from all walks of life, all around the world. Kay enjoyed music and dance as she grew up playing the piano, classical ballet and cello. At Southwest Junior High School she continued playing in the school orchestra. Kay expanded her passion of music and joined the Lawrence Children’s Choir on their Carnegie Hall trip. Throughout her years at Lawrence High school, she continued on her musical journey as a member of the orchestra and choir. As member of the Plymouth congregational Church, Kay also ventured into being a member of their bell choir. She attended JCCC and received an Associate Degree in culinary arts

Later in life Kay found joy and fulfillment in being a mother and raising her son Shaydon.

She passed on January 2, after an illness. Her first child Shakeilee preceded her in death. She leaves behind her son Shaydon who was the love of her life, her sisters Mina and Aya and her parents Bill and Kumi. Her caring, nurturing personality with her bright smile and contagious laugh will be dearly missed.

Kay loved to travel in her native Japan, the USA and Europe throughout her life and we ask all who knew her to wish her well on her spiritual journey.

Memorial contributions may be made in Kay’s name to her son, Shaydon Takeshi Folsom-Patterson. Make check payable to William D. Patterson, money will be for Katherine’s Son and may be sent in care of Warren-McElwain Mortuary, 120 W. 13 ^th Street, Lawrence, KS 66044.