James "Jim" Patton

James Luttrell Patton, known as Jim, passed away on October 20, 2024. He was born June 30, 1941, to parents Elmer and Mary Robson Patton.

Jim attended schools in his hometown of Charleston, West Virginia. He received his Bachelor’s from Hampton Sydney College in Virginia and received his Master’s from and did his doctoral work at the University of Maryland.

Jim had success in multiple careers throughout his lifetime. He began his career with the telephone company in Charleston. He was a stockbroker at Charles Schwab in Maryland, a Professor of Accounting at Loyola University in Baltimore and the University of Maryland. He established and ran the Hobby Works store in Laurel, Maryland for 10 years, later selling to his longtime manager. After retiring in 1993, he found a second career working with and advocating for the residents of continuing care retirement centers in Maryland.

Jim was an avid tennis player and animal lover. His hobbies included collecting antiques, vintage toys and dolls, and trains as a member of the Train Collectors of America (TCA). His earliest entrepreneurial ventures started as a promoter of rock & roll acts in Virginia in the late 1950’s. He also promoted singles parties in the 60’s. Jim was an extremely generous contributor to his favored charities. He always said that he wanted 5 careers in his life, and he put that into practice: eventually using that experience as an entrepreneur. Jim was a successful entrepreneur and advised other aspiring businesspeople. He was also a part of the Sigma Chi International Fraternity.

Jim is predeceased by his parents and is survived by his sister, Nancy Turner (James Turner), two nephews, Talton Turner and Robson Turner of San Francisco, California, and his ex-wife, Nancy Z. Patton.

Per Jim’s request, there will be no viewing or services. Please make a donation to your preferred charity in his name.