June 1, 1940 ~ August 14, 2024 (age 84)
Luther Earl Patrick, Jr. (Doc) Luther Earl Patrick, Jr., lovingly known as “Doc,” was born on June 1, 1940, in Columbus County to the late Luther Earl Patrick, Sr. and Mamie Webb Patrick. On August 15, 2024, Doc answered God’s call and peacefully departed from this world, leaving behind a legacy of love, service, and devotion that will forever be cherished. Doc was united in holy matrimony to Delphie Jacobs on November 27, 1964, a union that spanned nearly six decades and was marked by unwavering love and commitment. Together, they built a life centered around family, faith, and community.
Doc leaves behind a family who will continue to honor his memory: his beloved son, Earl Barty Patrick, and wife Dena of Buckhead; his treasured grandchildren, Nickolas Hunt Epps, Victoria Ann Patrick, and Caleb Earl Patrick, all of the home; and nieces and nephews who lost a parent that became like his own children: Stevie Lane Jacobs and wife Belle of Buckhead, Lasandra Young and husband Benjamin of Holden Beach, Carla Freeman and husband Harry of Buckhead, Chris Jacobs and wife Melissa of Pembroke, and John Jacobs and wife Michelle of Buckhead. He is also survived by his loving siblings: sisters Burma Patrick of the home, Yvonne Ketchem (Bob) of Ladson, SC, and Jane Jackson (Herman) of Salemburg, NC, and brother Clyde Ray Patrick of Bolton, NC. Doc was preceded in death by his parents (Luther Earl Patrick Sr. and Mamie Webb) two sisters Eileen Spaulding and Lillie Carter) and other extended cherished family members who have gone before him.
A loyal member of New Hope Baptist Church for over 50 years, Doc was a pillar of strength and an example of unwavering faith. He served as an encourager, leader, and teacher, always devoted to his family and church. Doc’s generous spirit extended beyond his immediate family as he took many boys in the community under his wing. He was a father figure to the fatherless, raising not only his own son but also many of his nieces and nephews. Doc attended Waccamaw High School and began his career in construction in Troy, NC. After marrying Delphie, he continued in the construction until him and his brother in law began driving trucks. They both decided that they would return to the construction industry working for Brown &Root, Crain and Denbo, and Yergin Construction. During his time with Crane and Denbo, he provided jobs for many of his nephews and young men in the community, giving them a chance, teaching them the value of hard work and to be providers for their families. Doc’s life was a testament to service. He was part of the Waccamaw Jaycees, Buckhead Fire Department and also part of the team that assisted in the remodeling New Hope Baptist Church. In later years, even though he had his own physical limitations, he continued to serve others, often taking trips to Chapel Hill and as far as Texas to be sure that loved ones were taken care of during times of sickness. Doc’s generosity knew no bounds. He also was the family tour guide for many years for his nieces and nephews, taking them on trips to see Christmas lights and creating memories that would last a lifetime.
His was all about investing in his family, in his church, and in his community. His financial and emotional support was a lifeline for many, and his legacy of service and love will continue to inspire all who knew him. He was a servant leader, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend. His presence will be deeply missed, the many stories of adventure, and the laughter, but his spirit will live on in the hearts of those who knew him.
When I was younger, he would tell me all sorts of stories of the guys that he worked with over the years. With so much passion that I could see myself right there with them on the jobsite. It took me years of listening to him and watching him to come to the realization that he was truly an investor. When he would tell the stories, he would just smile and chuckle. He would tell me how delighted that all the guys that he had worked with over the years were successful in life and how proud he was of them and their accomplishments. From my perspective, he was the definition of a true servant because he invested in others more than himself. He never wanted recognition for what he offered or done for others.
His funeral Service will be held on Sunday, August 18, 2024 at 3:00pm at New Hope Baptist Church with the Rev. Zachary Jacobs officiating.
His family will receive friends at the church starting at 1:30pm.
In closing, Luther Earl Patr ick Jr. AKA Dr. Pepper, Big Earl, Doll Baby was my hero.
