Della Patterson

On April 18, 2026, God in his infinite wisdom called his faithful servant, Della Wiggins Patterson from labor to eternal rest.

Della was born to the union of Michael and Hannah Wiggins in Greenburgh, NY on June 2, 1936 into a close and loving family. She was one of eleven children and lived a life rooted in faith, service and love. Growing up in New York, Della attended the public school system were her athletic ability afforded her a spot on the Wildcats Woman’s basketball team at George Washington High School, where she graduated.

Della met her life partner and loving husband, William E. Patterson at a social event which brought them to holy matrimony on September 30, 1956. Shortly after the couple moved to Queens, NY where they raised their family. Their union brought fourth three loving children, Carlton Patterson, Desiree Harper Blackmon and Charles Patterson.

Della was heavily immersed in family, friends and community. She served on the board of organizations for different social clubs like the Springfield Rifes and Riflettes. She also served food in the neighborhood Number’s Parlor.

After her husband, William “Billy” retired from the New York City Police Department with 30 years of service, the couple decided to plant their roots in Virginia Beach, VA. Della’s deep and abiding faith led her to become a devoted member of Pleasant Grove Baptist Church, Va. Beach. She faithfully served in the church’s missionary ministry and held the position of President of the Senior missionaries for three years. Della was also a faithful supporter of the Lott Cory Foreign Mission Convention and the Baptist General Convention of Virginia. She remained committed to giving her best self to her husband, family, church and friends until the challenges of the pandemic and her declining health, which limited her abilities.

Della was predeceased by her parents, Michael and Hannah Wiggins; siblings, Martha Wiggins, Walter Wiggins, Christine Lovette, Ophelia Hardy, Mary Shannon, Earl Wiggins, Ulysses Wiggins and James Wiggins.

Della leaves to cherish her fond memories, her husband, William E. Patterson; children, Carlton Patterson, Desiree Harper Blackmon, Charles Patterson; grandchildren, Yu’ Vaune McMillian, Troy Harper, Jr., Tashima Patterson, Briar Patterson, Charles Patterson, II, Tyrrell Nowden; five great grandchildren; siblings, Wilena Marable, Michael Wiggins; sister-in-law, Winifred Wiggins; god-daughter, Dawn Gray; daughter in love, Dr. Robin Joseph; and a tribe of nieces and nephews, other relatives and friends.