Janice Cooke Patterson, age 75, died June 2, 2015 at Halifax Regional Medical Center. A native of Durham County, she was born in Durham on November 10, 1939 to the late Burke M. and Madelein S. Cooke. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her sister, Brenda Gail Cooke.

Janice was a graduate of Durham High School, Kennedy Commercial School and attended Elon College, where she majored in Music. She was employed as a Medical Secretary at Duke University Medical Center and served as Organist for Yates Baptist Church and Lakewood Methodist Church prior to moving to Roanoke Rapids. She was a Legal Secretary for C.D. Clark, Jr., Attorney at Law and Office Manager for Halifax Medical Specialists, PA where she worked for over 33 years prior to retirement. During most of these years, she also served as Organist/Pianist for First Presbyterian Church and Rosemary Baptist Church.

She is survived by her children, William (Billy) of Roanoke Rapids, Cindy Patterson Pittman and her husband, Harold of Raleigh, and Stephen (Steve) of Roanoke Rapids; two grandchildren, Madeline and Jessica Patterson; one great-granddaughter, Aleeah; several cousins and many close friends.

She was a constant on the organ bench at Rosemary Baptist, rarely missing a Sunday while her health allowed. Her dedication, determination, and positive attitude were inspiring as she returned to play just 3 weeks after her right leg amputation. Even in adversity she was a witness to her faith and along with her sense of humor continued to amaze everyone who crossed her path. In addition to her musical talents, she loved sharing her gift of needlework, most recently in the form of knitted hats for cancer patients in area hospitals. She loved the fellowship of her church, her knitting club, and her Friday night dinner group. She had a sweet spirit and enjoyed a great sense of joy by serving others.

Visitation will be Thursday, June 4, 2015 from 7:00 to 8:30 PM at Askew Funeral and Cremation Services.

Funeral Services will be held at 11:00 AM on Friday, June 5, 2015 at Rosemary Baptist Church in Roanoke Rapids. A Graveside Service will be held at 3:00 PM at Maplewood Cemetery (Annex B) in Durham.

In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be made to the Lucille Thomas Sunday School Class or the Ernelle Brooks Mission Involvement Group, Rosemary Baptist Church, 936 Jackson St., Roanoke Rapids, NC 27870.