Johnnie Ruth March Patton, a devoted mother, educator, and pillar of the Tyler musical community, passed away peacefully on April 27, 2026.

Born in Winona, Texas on August 2nd 1948 to the parentage of Sherman March and Elberta Crow March. She was the youngest of 10 siblings. Her lifelong passion for music began early as she studied classical piano and sang in church alongside her father. A dedicated lifelong learner, Johnnie held degrees from Tyler Junior College, Texas College, and University of Texas at Tyler. Johnnie married Dr. Rev. ACMitchell Patton on March 2nd 1968 and served as First Lady for Churches, Districts and Texas College. She shared her musical gifts for 43 years as a Tyler ISD teacher, earning numerous lifetime achievement awards. Even in retirement, she continued teaching piano lessons and singing in different choirs. She was an active member of the First Church of Christ Scientists, the Texas Music Educators Association, Alpha Kappa Alpha (AKA) Sorority, branch president of the Landowners Association of Texas and countless other community organizations. When she wasn't sharing her love of music, Johnnie found peace and joy while tending to her garden.

Preceded in Death By: Her parents, Sherman and Elberta March, her beloved husband, Rev. Dr. A.C. Mitchell Patton, and her ten siblings

Survived By: Her sons, A.C. Mitchell Patton I and Sherman Christopher David Patton, and a host of loving nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends who will miss her dearly.