Jo Anne Nida Patterson was born January 21, 1930, to Jack Edwin Nida and Ruth P. Nida in Columbus, Ohio. She was part of the long line of Nidas who immigrated from Germany in the 1800's to Gallia County, Ohio. A graduate of Bexley High School, she matriculated from Ohio State University with a B.A., and was an active member of Pi Beta Phi sorority, President of Alpha Lambda Delta honor society, and a Red Cross Water Instructor. She married Donis Dean Patterson in 1951 and taught school during his Korean War service. She shared her parents' interest in history and genealogy and was a 50 year member of the Daughters of the American Revolution. Jo Anne ministered alongside her husband at St. Andrew's Episcopal Church, Washington Court House, Ohio; St. Marks Episcopal Church, Venice, Florida; and All Saints Episcopal Church in Winter Park, Florida. When her husband was elected as Fifth Bishop of Dallas in 1983, they moved to Texas. In 1995, they returned to their "true home," Winter Park, Florida. The Rt. Rev. Donis Patterson predeceased her, as did her son, Andrew, and sister, Nancy Nida Hadley. She is survived by her son Christopher Nida Patterson, his wife Vicky, and her sister, Betsy Nida Noethlick of Columbus, Ohio. Jo Anne has two grandchildren: Kirsten Patterson, Travis Patterson.
During her full life with her beloved husband, she met Pope John Paul II, worshipped with President George and Barbara Bush, and enjoyed high tea with Queen Elizabeth; yet she counted as her deepest joy watching her grandchildren grow and graduate from college. She was an avid reader, enjoyed travel, history, and debate, especially through The English-Speaking Union. She looked forward to attending Spring Training baseball in Kissimmee each year. Throughout her final days she remained a faithful Ohio State Buckeye fan, sporting the scarlet and gray every game day. She knew Jesus as her Lord and Savior and answered His call home on February 17, 2014, with loved ones by her side.
A memorial service will be held at All Saints Episcopal Church, Winter Park, Florida, 11:00 a.m. Friday, February 28, 2014. In lieu of flowers, the family requests a contribution in JoAnne's name be made to Hospice of the Comforter, 480 W Central Parkway, Altamonte Springs, Florida 32714.
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