Kay Patterson, former longtime Richland County lawmaker, civil rights icon dies at 93
Former state Sen. Kay Patterson, known for his colorful language and wit, died Friday after being sick, sources with knowledge confirmed to The State.
He was 93.
Described as a civil rights icon, the former Richland County lawmaker served in the General Assembly for 32 years.
Patterson was a member of the state House from 1975 through 1985 representing District 73 and in the state Senate from 1985 through 2007 representing District 19.
“His unwavering commitment to the education, civil rights and the well-being of all South Carolinians has left an indelible mark our state. Sen. Patterson commanded everyone’s attention with his wit and wisdom.” S.C. Democratic Party Chairwoman Christale Spain said in a statement. “His leadership and dedication to our community inspired me and many others.”
Patterson had a bachelor’s degree from Allen University and served two years in U.S. Marine Corps.
State Sen. Tameika Isaac Devine, D-Richland, who now holds the seat previously held by Patterson, called him a towering champion for “justice, equality and education.”
“As a legislator, educator, and mentor, he consistently fought to uplift the marginalized, amplify unheard voices, and ensure a brighter future for all South Carolinians,” Devine posted on X. “His unwavering commitment to civil rights and education reform has touched countless lives and will continue to inspire generations to come.”
U.S. Rep. Jim Clyburn, D-Santee, called Patterson a “treasured friend” and noted how he was a long-time proponent of removing the Confederate flag from atop the State House dome.
“He was a passionate voice for South Carolina’s families, serving over three decades in public service,” Clyburn said in a statement.
Former state Sen. Dick Harpootlian, D-Richland, said Patterson will be sorely missed and described Patterson as a civil rights icon.
“He was an extraordinary public servant and an extraordinary example for anyone in public service,” Harpootlian said. “He wasn’t looking for a way to get something for him. He was looking for a way to get something for his community.”
During his career in public service, Patterson served as a commissioner for the South Carolina Department of Highways and Public Transportation, chairman of the South Carolina Legislative Black Caucus, chairman of the Richland County Legislative Delegation, and as a trustee on the University of South Carolina Board.
He was the first Black person to serve on the USC Board since Reconstruction.
Former state Sen. Joel Lourie, D-Richland, whose father, Isadore, was friends with Patterson, said Patterson was an inspirational and transformational leader.
“Sen. Patterson was a force for change. He was not afraid to speak out against prejudice or injustice, both as an educator and a public servant,” Lourie said in a statement.
Patterson taught at for 14 years at W.A. Perry Middle School, C.A. Johnson High School and Benedict College and served for 16 years as a UniServ representative for the South Carolina Education Association.
State Sen. Darrell Jackson, D-Richland, said Patterson was a politician who could keep the attention of young people. Jackson said Patterson motivated him to go into politics.
“He spoke to us, not at us,” Jackson said. “He used colorful language and kept us at the end of our seat.”
Patterson’s oratory ability is what most remember him for which included his ability to use wit to his advantage.
“He was not a giant of a man until he opened his mouth and stood on his credentials,” said House Minority Leader Todd Rutherford, D-Richland.
“Everyone took note when he started to talk,” Rutherford added. “He had an uncanny ability to take street talk and turn it into intelligent talk and take intelligent talk and turn it into street talk.”
Former Columbia Mayor Bob Coble said he was advised to never speak after Patterson.
“He would always bring the house down,” Coble said.
“He did it with a flair. He left you laughing, but while you were laughing, you knew what his point was,” said Senate Minority Leader Brad Hutto, D-Orangeburg.
This story will be updated.
This story was originally published December 13, 2024 at 1:09 PM.
