Jim H. Patton, PhD

Dr. Jim H. Patton, of Woodway, passed away unexpectedly on Nov. 1, 2018, at his home due to a heart attack. A memorial Service will be held Nov. 17, 2018, at FUMC of Waco at 1:00pm. A reception will follow from 2:00 – 4:00 pm to visit with the family. Dr. Patton’s family requests that you may wear any applicable uniform corresponding with your service to the community.

Jim was born in Amarillo, Texas, on June 22, 1948. He was the son of James Herbert Patton and Evelyn Patton. He graduated from Twin Falls High School in Twin Falls, ID. From there, he furthered his education by attending Idaho State University in Pocatello, ID. He earned his bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Idaho State. While attending Idaho State, Jim met the love of his life, Kristi McGarry. The two wed on Feb. 24, 1973. Jim and Kristi then moved to Waco, TX, so Jim could earn his PhD from Baylor University in 1978. After earning his doctorate, Jim, was a postdoctoral fellow in the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Science and the Department of Human Biological Chemistry and Genetics at UTMB in Galveston, TX. Jim returned to Baylor University in 1980 to join the faculty in the Psychology and Neuroscience Department. His primary focus of study was the neurological basis of mental disorders. Mainly, what was the cause of impulsive behavior and sensation seeking.

Most of Jim’s life was spent furthering others’ educational pursuits as well as his own through teaching and leading byexample at Baylor University for the remainder of his life. Jim served as Chair of the Faculty for the Psychology and Neuroscience Department from 1992-2004. He also served on the Faculty Senate at Baylor for multiple terms, including as chair from 2004-2005 and 2013-2014. Jim received the W.R. White Meritorious Service Award in 2005 which honors individuals whom have rendered outstanding service to Baylor. Jim was also the Graduate Program Director for the Department at the time of his death.

Jim enjoyed the outdoors in many aspects: fly-fishing, hunting, competitive shooting, Scouting, and anywhere with his family outside. Many of his weekends were spent teaching his son about the outdoors. Later in life, Jim spent most of what little free time he had fishing, hunting, and working with his son anywhere they didn’t have a roof over them. The two were always outside together pursuing happiness. Jim and Kristi would take trips every year to go explore some new part of the country away from all the business of the city.

Jim also was an avid Scouter. He served many roles in the Scouting community over his entire life and cherished eachrelationship with Scouts from all over the world. Jim earned his Eagle Scout award in 1964. Although, many scouts end here, Jim continued scouting throughout his entire life. His son, Dustin, earned his Eagle in 1994, which was a lifelong dream for Jim. Jim was a Distinguished Eagle Scout, Vigil member of the Order of the Arrow, Silver Beaver Reward recipient, and countless other honors. Jim served the Scouting Community in many capacities. He is the past President of the Longhorn Council. Jim was currently serving on the Regional Board at the time of his death. Jim served on numerous Wood badge courses in different roles, was on staff at three National Jamborees, traveled to the High Adventure Camps, and was one of the Camp Inspectors for the HOT Council and Longhorn council for over 20 years which covers all Boy Scout Camps in Texas, New Mexico, and Louisiana.

Jim was also serving on the MCC Police Academy Board at the time of death. He served many roles there as well and was currently serving as Assistant Director.

Jim was preceded in death by his Father at a young age and by his Mother, later in life. He is survived by his wife, Kristi M. Patton, of whom he was married to for 45 years. Jim is also survived by his only son, Dustin Patton. Jim leaves behind a brother, John Moore and wife, Wendy, of Pocatello, ID., their Daughter, Jennifer Silberstein and Husband, Forrest, of Riverside, CA. He also leaves behind a sister, Becky Chollettand husband, Galen, their Son, Garrett, of Lorena, TX. Jim has many other family members that he is survived by as well:brother in laws, sister in laws, nieces, nephews, great nieces and nephews.

In lieu of flowers, Dr. Patton’s family would like donations given to the charity of one’s choice.

Memorial Service

1:00 PM - 2:00 PM ,Saturday, November 17, 2018
First United Methodist Church of Waco
4901 Cobbs Waco, TX 76710
Notes: It would honor Dr. Patton's family if you would wear any applicable uniform; Boy Scouts, MCC police, etc

Reception

2:00 PM - 4:00 PM ,Saturday, November 17, 2018
First United Methodist Church of Waco
4901 Cobbs Waco, TX 76710