Hazel Allie Patterson

Hazel Allie Patterson, age 99, of Louisville, Kentucky, passed away peacefully on August 9, 2025.

Born on May 4, 1926, in Clarksville, Tennessee, Hazel was the beloved daughter of Austin and Tyler Wilkins. She built a life defined by hard work, faith, and dedication to community, spending over 40 years on the production line at Brown-Forman Distillery.

Hazel was a proud and longtime member of the Order of the Eastern Star for 70 years and in the American Legion Auxiliary for more than 60 years. Her commitment to these organizations reflected her deep-rooted sense of service and camaraderie. She was also a member of Kenwood Baptist Church, where her faith was an anchor throughout her life.

In her leisure time, Hazel was known for her love of classic game shows — rarely missing an episode of Jeopardy! or Wheel of Fortune. In her younger years, she cherished simple pleasures like taking walks with her neighbors and visiting with friends. She found great joy in traveling to see family and friends in Florida and Tennessee, making lasting memories along the way.

Hazel’s long and full life was a testament to loyalty, love, and quiet strength. She will be remembered fondly by those who knew her and loved her.

Hazel is preceded in death by her loving husband of 34 years, Woodrow Patterson; parents, Austin Wilkins and Tyler Walton Wilkins; grandson; Harry J. Hertel II; son-in-law, Bill Vanfleet; and many brothers and sisters.

Left to cherish her memory, Hazel is survived by her 2 daughters, Marty Vanfleet and Faye Allen; great-grandson, Harry “Trey” J. Hertel III; siblings, Katherine Rittenberry (Martin); Dorothy Harp, Laura Peyser, Juanita Rittenberry, Mary Francis Rittenberry, Junior Wilkins, Bob Wilkins (Cathy), and Mike Wilkins (Sarah); and a host of extended family and close friends.

A funeral service for Mrs. Hazel Patterson will be held at 2:00 PM on Saturday, August 16, 2025, at Louisville Memorial Gardens West, 4400 Dixie Highway, Louisville, Kentucky. Visitation will be held prior to the funeral service from 12:00 to 2:00 PM at the funeral home.