Nina Patterson

Nina Angela De Luca Patterson, a lifelong educator and devoted wife, mother and grandmother, whose passion for reading touched generations of young students, passed away peacefully on October 18, 2025, at the age of 86. She was blessed to be surrounded by family at her home in Cumming, GA. Nina will be remembered for her enduring love of life, love for her husband, dedication to her family, and her gifted talents teaching so many young children reading.

Nina is survived by her loving husband of 60 years, Peter George Patterson; her daughter, Debbie (Patrick) McHugh of Milton, GA, and her son, Peter (Julia) Patterson Jr., of McLean, VA; her cherished grandchildren, Matthew, Bryce and Aidan McHugh, and Brant Patterson. She is also survived by her cousins, Alford (Elaine) De Luca and Sylvia Loftus, and nephews David (Nancy) and Tim (Jacqueline) De Luca. She was preceded in death by her parents, Joseph and Norina De Luca; her brother, Joe De Luca (Peggy), and sister Donna De Luca.

A lifelong educator and reading specialist, Nina graduated from P.S. duPont High School in Wilmington and attended the University of Delaware, where she earned her Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education. She began her teaching career at Lora Little Elementary School, which was part of the Stanton school district. After more than 30 years teaching in school districts across the country, and following her devoted husband’s career with General Motors, she retired from teaching in 2009 from the Spencer Road Elementary School in Brighton, Michigan. Beyond the classroom, Nina was a lifetime learner, member of the Episcopal church, inspiring Mom and Grandmother, and a fierce advocate for her children, grandchildren, and her students.

While Nina found happiness in her personal pursuits, especially daily walks, playing tennis, vacationing at the beach, cooking, playing the piano, and a love of reading, she especially found joy in being a caring and faithful wife, mother, and grandmother. She also found great zeal in raising her children and seeing them flourish, carrying a keen sense of pride in their accomplishments and successes in life. She would embrace this same great energy and enthusiasm as a devoted grandmother tirelessly imparting life lessons, each centered on encouragement and optimism, and showering her four grandsons with endless love. She was known for her political wit, keen sense of patriotism, and uncanny ability to find a four-leaf clover in any patch. Nina was treasured by her family and friends.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the staff at Atlanta Senior Helpers and Dynamic Hospice Care for their compassionate care. Above all, Nina leaves behind a legacy of love, faith, learning, and laughter.

A celebration of life service will be held on November 8th, 2025, at 2:00 PM, at the Episcopal Church of the Holy Spirit located at 724 Pilgrim Mill Road, Cumming, GA 30040. A live stream of the service will be provided at https://www.ecohs.net

A reception to follow in the Church Hall from 3:00-5:00 PM. In addition to, or in lieu of flowers, a donation to honor the family can be made to the The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson's Research at https://www.michaeljfox.org,