Senate Resolution No. 2845

BY: Senator KENNEDY

MOURNING the tragic and untimely death of Heyward
Patterson, devoted father, brother and uncle, and
distinguished member of his community

WHEREAS, There are certain outstanding members of our community who,
through their selfless commitment and dedication, have served to better
the quality of life in our community and have had a measurable positive
impact on the lives of its residents; Heyward Patterson was one such
individual; and

WHEREAS, It is with profound sorrow and deep regret that this
Legislative Body records the passing of Heyward Patterson, noting the
significance of his purposeful life and accomplishments; and

WHEREAS, Heyward Patterson of Buffalo, New York, died on Saturday,
May 14, 2022, in the devastating act of violence which took place at the
Tops Friendly Market on historic Jefferson Avenue; he was 68 years old;
and

WHEREAS, A man of indomitable faith and dedication, Deacon Heyward
Patterson was a devout member of the State Tabernacle Church of God
where he gave tirelessly of his time and energies, walking people to
their seats, escorting members home, cleaning, and volunteering with the
soup kitchen; and

WHEREAS, With a steadfast and unwavering commitment to his
community, Heyward Patterson worked at Tops as a jitney driver for many
years, picking shoppers up and driving them home; he would give the
shirt off his back to anyone in need, and always did for others out of
the kindness of his heart; and

WHEREAS, While he was passionate about many things, above all his
greatest passion was spending time with his family; and

WHEREAS, Heyward Patterson was the loving son of Annie (Stover) and
Hazel Patterson; beloved father of Diona Patterson and Schrita
Patterson-Burton (Tyrell); dearest brother of the late Diane Griffin
(Anthony), the late Billy Patterson, Wayne Patterson, Helen
Patterson-Gidney (Charles), Leonard Patterson (LaChrisa), the late Tony
Maxwell Sr., Adrian Patterson (Preciouss), Daveda Patterson, Dana
Patterson, Deidra Patterson, Dion Patterson, the late Dean Patterson,
the late Darcell Patterson, and Shammi Patterson; adored grandfather to
his four grandchildren, Rasheed Paul, Johnny Murray Jr., J'Von
Cunningham, and Alexis Bell; and one great-grandchild, Aubree Paul; and
cherished by a host of loving family and friends; and

WHEREAS, Heyward Patterson's infinite selflessness and benevolence
will shine on through his family's vivid and happy memories; his insight
and strength will forever serve as a beacon of love, light and hope to
the countless lives he touched; and

WHEREAS, Armed with a humanistic spirit and imbued with a sense of
compassion, Heyward Patterson leaves behind a legacy which will long

endure the passage of time and will remain as a comforting memory to all
who were privileged to have known and loved such an amazing man; he will
be deeply missed and truly merits the grateful tribute of this
Legislative Body; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
mourn the tragic and untimely death of Heyward Patterson, and to express
its deepest condolences to his family; and be it further

RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to the family of Heyward Patterson.