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COGIC’s Louise Dowdy Patterson – ‘Mother Patterson’ to many – dead at 84

Evangelist Louise Dowdy Patterson, the widow of long-time Church of God in Christ (COGIC) Presiding Bishop, the late Gilbert E. Patterson, died Sunday evening, surrounded by loved ones.

Mrs. Patterson was 84.

As president and CEO of Bountiful Blessings Ministries, Inc., Mrs. Patterson served as the general manager of WBBP (1480-AM) radio station and president of Podium Records. She authored the book, “A Rare Pearl.”

A stream of social media posts with photos, reflections, and memories attested to Mrs. Patterson’s ability to connect with the many women, children, and men who endearingly  called her “Mother Patterson.”

“Lady Patterson was the embodiment of grace, femininity, and spirituality,” said Bishop David Hall, member of the COGIC General Board and pastor of Temple Church of God in Christ.

Bishop G.E. Patterson (Photo: Tyrone P. Easley/The New Tri-State Defender)

“As a couple, Bishop G.E. and his wife complemented each other so perfectly. They were the quintessential power couple. Her presence will be missed.”

Mrs. Patterson had fallen ill just before COGIC’s convocation earlier this month and was unable to attend. Before her brief illness, she was in regular attendance at worship services and church other activities.

On Sunday evening, just after 6 p.m., on Nov. 20, Mrs. Patterson died in the presence of loved ones, who had the opportunity to say “goodbye,” according to a family member.

“We were all shocked and saddened by the passing of Mother Louise Patterson,” said Bishop Brandon Porter, COGIC General Board member, and pastor of Greater Community Temple Church of God in Christ. “She will always be a signature personality in all of our hearts.

“Mother Patterson was dearly loved by the men and women in the Church of God in Christ. She had a unique way of connecting with women of all ages concerning real-life issues.”

Recalling how “Mother Patterson would often share her personal testimony and human experiences about life,” Bishop Porter said, “This kind of ministry – transparency – brought hope and trust to the lives of those she ministered to. She will never be forgotten.”

Although details concerning the cause of death were not available, those close to the family said Mrs. Patterson’s death was “unexpected.”

Bishop Patterson left her in full control of an entity that was incorporated as his personal ministry outreach, separate and apart from Temple of Deliverance Church of God in Christ, which they co-founded.

Evangelist Louise D. Patterson, Temple of Deliverance, 2010. (Photo: Tyrone P. Easley/The New Tri-State Defender)

Mrs. Patterson was known for the saying: “G.E. – He brings good things to life.”

It was a clever take on a General Electric commercial slogan touting the company’s versatility of products and services.

“Since 2007, after the Lord called my… Presiding Bishop Gilbert Earl Patterson home, Mother Patterson continued to keep Bountiful Blessings Inc., G.E. Patterson’s television ministry, and his memory alive,” posted Ezekiel Johnson on Facebook.

“I am the preacher I am today because she kept G.E. Patterson on the air…”

Final arrangements are pending.

R.S. Lewis & Sons has charge.

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