James T. Patterson Jr

James T. Patterson, Jr., born on December 25, 1934, in Indianapolis passed away peacefully at his home on February 23, 2026, surrounded by his loving and thankful family.

Jim lived a long, full life marked by dedication to his family, his work, and the United Brotherhood of Carpenters (UBC). He built his life on values learned early from his father: loyalty, hard work, and integrity. Those qualities guided him through a remarkable career and a 71‑year membership in the carpenters’ union, beginning in Carpenters’ Local 60 in Indianapolis. He also served in the U.S. Army Reserve.

Jim served as Secretary‑Treasurer of the Central & Western Indiana District Council of Carpenters from 1967-1982 and President of the Central Indiana Building & Construction Trades, until he accepted a position as an International Representative of the UBC. His career culminated in his election as General Secretary‑Treasurer of the UBC International Union, a role from which he retired in 1996.

His leadership within the UBC was distinguished and influential. He focused his career on securing fellow union members record raises and benefits, better training opportunities, dignity at work, and a secure retirement. His commitment to his carpentry trade also included membership in the Scottish Rite, of which he was a proud lifetime member.

At home, Jim was the heart of his family. He and his loving wife, Janet, shared 68 years of marriage and raised five children, Jim Patterson (Pam), Elaine Patterson, Julie Burris (Bill), David Patterson, and Brad Patterson. He is survived by his wife Janet, his children, and five grandchildren; Olivia Sappenfield (Mike), James Patterson, Laura Patterson, Charlotte and Haig Patterson.

Jim cherished time spent with family and lifelong friends—whether fishing, boating, golfing, playing cards, rooting for his beloved Indiana Pacers, or simply enjoying the company of those he loved.

Jim had a wonderful sense of camaraderie that extended beyond work and family. He was the unofficial chairman of his ROMEO group, a champion in his men’s club golf league, and an enthusiastic—if often defeated—Canasta player. He brought humor, warmth, and good‑natured competitiveness to every gathering.

Jim will be deeply missed by all who knew him. His legacy of service to the Labor Movement, his fellowship among friends, and devotion to family will remain an enduring gift to those he leaves behind. He now receives His Crowning Glory as he joins his twin brother and best friend, John; his sister, Betty Jeanne Cox; his brother‑in‑law, Merle Cox, and his parents James and Hazel Patterson in heaven.

The family would like to thank Jim’s caregivers who became his friends, especially Lakeisha, Lauren, Ahmadou, Danielle, and Abigail. Thanks as well to the many loving nurses and caregivers at Adoration Hospice who added comfort and joy to his life.

A viewing will be held Monday, March 2, from 4-7 p.m. at Indiana Funeral Care, 1307 N. Shadeland, Indianapolis. A funeral mass will be held Tuesday, March 3, at 11 a.m. at Holy Spirit Parish at Geist Catholic Church, 10350 Glaser Way, Fishers, with an additional viewing at 10 a.m. prior to mass. Entombment services will immediately follow mass at Oaklawn Memorial Gardens, 9700 Allisonville Rd. The celebration of life will continue with a luncheon at Holy Spirit to share happy memories of Jim.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks to offer a donation in Jim’s name to Riley Children’s Foundation.