OCTOBER 1, 1934 – APRIL 25, 2025
Frankie Bouyer Patterson
Frankie Patterson, beloved wife of Our Own Thing Chorale founder Willis Patterson passed away on Friday, April 25, 2025, in Ann Arbor, Michigan, at the age of 90.
See full obituary here:
https://www.dignitymemorial.com/obituaries/ann-arbor-mi/frankie-patterson-12358412
1942 - 2021
Paul Duane Haynes
Passed away 9 August 2021 in Ann Arbor at the age of 78. Paul was a member of Our Own Thing Chorale for over 3 decades joining in 1987. He now sings in the baritone section of the heavenly choir, & saves seats for his choir friends. Use this link to read his full obituary: https://ourownthing.org/blank
April 11, 1946 - June 25, 2021
Anne Rueter
Anne was a dedicated member of the Our Own Thing Chorale. She was also a member of the First Congregational Church of Ann Arbor and sang in the church’s choir. Anne's love of history, literature, music, and the natural world were joys she shared with family and friends. https://obits.mlive.com/us/obituaries/annarbor/
FEBRUARY 28, 1933 – NOVEMBER 21, 2020
Bernard Nathanial Patterson
Bernard was a long-time member, soloist and supporter of Our Own Thing Chorale and brother to Founder Willis C. Patterson. In lieu of flowers Bernard wished that donations be made to some of his favorite community organizations. We are honored to be one of the designees. Bernard is truly missed. https://www.dignitymemorial.com/obituaries/ann-arbor-mi/bernard-patterson-9913013
Bernard,
When the tenors were weak, you were strong. When the music was challenging you kept us in rhythm. When sweetness and worship were needed in song, you provided the reverence. When humor was needed you were pitch perfect. How I miss you my friend. I hope you always knew how much we loved and admired you. Now that Heavenly Choir is even more perfect. Jeff Pickell.
1933 - 2020
Barbara Jean Meadows
Barbara sang for over thirty years in the Our Own Thing Chorale under the leadership of founder Dr. Willis Patterson. She was thrilled the Chorale continues its legacy under the direction of one of her dearest mentees, Darnell Ishmel. Full obituary https://obits.mlive.com/amp/obituaries/annarbor/196068532