Mr. David Patten, Jr.

Mr. David Patten Jr., was born August 19, 1974 to David Patten Sr. and Betty Williams Patten of Columbia, South Carolina.  He was the third of four children. David was affectionately known as Mane, Dooley, Sweets, Chief and the list goes on and on as he created nicknames for himself during various stages of his life. He suddenly departed this dear life, transitioning from earth to glory, on Thursday, September 2, 2021 at the age of 47.  He departed this life too soon, nevertheless at God’s appointed time.    

David was educated in the Richland School District One public school system and was a 1992 graduate of Lower Richland High School.  An athlete at heart, David enjoyed wrestling but excelled in football despite being short in stature.  He obtained God’s divine favor and matriculated to Western Carolina University on a full scholarship.  He always worked hard to be the best and to “leave it all on the field”.   

As a child, he told everyone who would listen, “One day, I am going to play in the National Football League (NFL).”  Upon leaving college, it appeared as though this dream was unobtainable because he had not been invited or even considered for this prestigious group of men.  It was the denial from man that caused him to shift his mindset and to pursue his goal fervently.  Driven by determination and passion, he knew that quitting was not an option for him.  Therefore, he remained faithful and continued to cultivate a strong work ethic by once again giving it his all.  During this time, he worked in a coffee bean factory.  This was a very humbling experience and hard work which could have broken him.  Instead, it served as a training ground and propelled him to a  12-year career in the National Football League. 

The journey to the NFL first took him through the Canadian and Arena Football League where he played for the Albany Firebirds mid-season 1996.  During the off-season with the Firebirds, David received an invitation to try out for the New York Giants after a workout at the University of South Carolina Pro Timing Day.  This opportunity was undeniable proof that he was worthy of a career in the NFL.  David did not want to just to be on a team.  As he stated, he was determined to be the best player he could be.  Consequently, he had a successful career during his tenure in the NFL.  He played for the New York Giants (1997-1999), Cleveland Browns (2000), New England Patriots (2001-2004), Washington Redskins (2005-2006), and the New Orleans Saints (2007-2008).  During his time with the New England Patriots, David obtained the ultimate goal of every NFL player.   David, along with his team, competed in the Super Bowl, not once but three times. He was the 6th player in NFL history to run, catch and throw for a touchdown and he was ultimately named AFC Offensive Player of the Week for that performance.   After playing for the league, he returned to Western Carolina to complete his Bachelor of Social Work degree. 

David Patten Jr. was baptized and received the gift of the Holy Ghost at True Believers Church. There, he worked tirelessly by sharing his experience and depositing seeds or nuggets.  He challenged individuals to establish and cultivate a personal relationship with Jesus.  He was an “ambassador for Christ.”  David was ordained a minister in 2013, and together with Galiena, they established A Way of Life (AWOL) Ministries in 2015.  As a pastor, his prophetic voice challenged all ears who listened with a hungry heart to be a true worshipper and praiser.  The same intensity that he took to the football field, he brought it back to the church.  He refused to leave a soul lost.   

David was a humble giant.  He was well known for his tenure in the league, but his true passion was rightly dividing the Word of God and winning souls.  He was an avid Bible scholar.  David’s servanthood and outstretched hands were far reached and quietly moved throughout our communities.  He was determined to be the greatest servant-leader. He impacted everyone he met and his voice will continue to echo in our ears.  

David was a visionary and would use whatever avenue he could find to demonstrate greatness!  He was a landscaper, property investor, and renovator.  There was no challenge that he would not face head on as he was determined to become a master landscaper and renovator. He loved to work with his hands and began to learn the skills to renovate the houses he invested in for himself.  He always had a “teach me how to do it” mentality.  These were skills that he passed on to his children, nephews, and anyone who was interested.  

Mr. David Patten, Jr. leaves to cherish his memory and honor his legacy: his wife, Galiena Hardy Patten of 24 years (college sweethearts); three sons, Daquan Lamar, Quinton Trevon, and David III; one daughter, Mia Gabrielle; his parents, David Patten Sr. and Betty Williams Patten; three sisters, Katrice (Kelvin) Rogers of Columbia, SC, Sylvia Patten of Charlotte, NC, and Chaunta (Lavelle) Simmons of Columbia, SC; father-in-law, Hubert Hardy of Morganton, NC; brother-in-law, Hubert (Renee) Hardy, Jr. of Clayton, NC, sister-in-law, Natasha Hardy of Morrisville, NC, honorary brother, Ronald Morrison; honorary son, Brian Johnson; honorary niece, Brittnay Jackson; godchildren; nieces; nephews; cousins; and a host of extended children and loved ones who were drafted in.  

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