Emory Patterson

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Emory Ewen Patterson III, age 67, on Jan. 9, 2025, in Nosara, Guanacaste, Costa Rica. Born on April 19, 1957, in Waukegan, IL, Emory made his home in Hopkinton, but his spirit, legacy, and warmth touched lives across the country.

Emory was the loving husband of Joyce Patterson for many years, and together they built a life full of shared dreams, triumphs and challenges. Emory’s family was everything to him, and he was a devoted father to his five children, Tiffany Patterson-Duck (Keith Duck), Shaunna Patterson, Katherine Brunks (Andrew Brunks), Emory Patterson IV (Angela Patterson) and Breanna Phippen (Neil Phippen), and stepchildren Shawn Oliveira and Casey Jennings. He also was a proud Papa to his beloved grandchildren, Devan, Keira, Breckyn, Clara, Annalie, Juliet and Matea.

He leaves behind his first wife, Christy Patterson, the mother of his older children, with whom he shared many years and memories. Also surviving are his siblings, Gail Schmidt, Kathy Werchek and Patrick Patterson, and his mother, Christine Patterson. He was preceded in death by his father, Emory Ewen Patterson II, and his grandparents, Emory Ewen Patterson I and Katherine Victoria Patterson.

Emory was a visionary developer and entrepreneur whose passion for craftsmanship left a lasting imprint on the communities he worked in. As the owner of Stonehedge Developments, he designed and built luxury custom homes, with a deep commitment to quality and detail. Among his most notable projects were Wynstone of North Barrington, Illinois, and Iron Horse Dressage, an equestrian facility in Framingham. Emory’s dedication to perfection was reflected in every aspect of his work, from a stunning infinity-edge pool with a motorized, hidden cover, to a luxurious custom Wellesley home, which became the largest private residence in Massachusetts in 2010. Another standout project was his custom-designed pickleball court, a 30-by-60-foot space featuring floor heating and a snow-melt system for year-round play. Emory also was looking forward to his next venture in Naples, Florida, where he planned to bring his unique vision to life once again. His legacy of exceptional design and his passion for creating beautiful spaces will continue to inspire all who knew him.

Emory was deeply committed to mentoring those in the trades. He found joy in sharing his knowledge, helping others realize their dreams and pushing the boundaries of what was possible. His work ethic was legendary, and his approach to every project reflected his belief that hard work and dedication lead to success. Emory’s wisdom, humility and generosity of spirit inspired many.

Outside of his work, Emory was a man of diverse interests and passions. He had a lifelong love of water and boats, spending countless hours on the lake with his children, racing cigarette boats and wave runners, and enjoying boat poker runs. His mechanical prowess was unmatched; he could always be found building, fixing or creating something new. Whether it was grilling the perfect ribs or preparing his famous burgers or renowned Chilean sea bass, Emory found joy in the simple pleasures of life. His love of the outdoors and quiet moments on his patio watching hummingbirds added to his peaceful presence.

Emory’s love for his family was reflected in everything he did, from his participation in father-daughter dances to his devotion to each of his children’s interests and passions. He was a master of dad jokes and loved making people laugh with his dry humor and quirky wit. He was known for saying, “I’m always willing to help somebody who is willing to help themselves or better themselves,” and, “I wouldn’t make you do anything I wouldn’t do.” Emory’s generosity of spirit was matched only by his boundless energy and zest for life.

A true “Roller Skating King,” Emory had the best dance moves, especially to “Relax” by Frankie Goes to Hollywood. His enthusiasm for life and his love for family will be forever cherished by all who knew him. He never stopped working, whether in his career or at home, and his presence will be deeply missed.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, Jan. 18, at St. Patrick’s Church, Wadsworth, Illinois. Visitation will be from 10–11 a.m., followed by the service from 11 a.m.-noon.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to the Lyme Mexico Clinic, which has established the Emory Patterson Memorial Fund. This fund is dedicated to helping patients who are unable to afford the full cost of their treatment protocols, including diagnostic testing and essential therapies. The Lyme Mexico Clinic played a crucial role in Joyce’s journey with Lyme disease, providing the care and support she needed during her initial diagnosis and treatment. Dr. Morales, a close friend and like family to us, also is a member of the board of directors at the International Lyme and Associated Diseases Society (ILADS). Emory was a passionate advocate for helping others access Dr. Morales’ expertise and begin their healing journey.

Alternatively, donations can be made to the International Lyme and Associated Diseases Society, an organization that supports education, research and advocacy for those affected by Lyme disease. Contributions in Emory’s memory can be made at iladef.org/donation.

Emory’s legacy of hard work, love and laughter will continue to inspire all who were lucky enough to know him. His family takes comfort in knowing that his spirit will live on in the lives he touched and the dreams he helped build.

Obituaries are submissions, typically from funeral homes, that are not subject to the same level of editorial oversight as the rest of the Hopkinton Independent. Obituaries may be edited for grammatical and factual mistakes and clarifications and shortened for space considerations.