Robert W. Patterson, 72, of Brooklyn, NY, died May 8, 2019. Born August 6,1946, in Buffalo, NY, he was the son of the late William E. and Lillian (Allen) Patterson.
Robert taught acting at the Robert Patterson Studio in New York City’s Upper West Side for 45 years. Having studied directly under Sanford Meisner, Bob applied Meisner’s work through a successful career as a stage actor, primarily on Broadway, Off-Broadway and at major regional theaters throughout the country. Over more than four decades, Robert built upon Meisner’s work to develop a complete way of working that is taught nowhere else. He was passionate about breaking down and simplifying the elements and tools of the craft of acting. Alumni of the Robert Patterson Studio include Ted Danson, JoBeth Williams, Tim Kelleher, Martha Jacobs and countless other renowned actors.
Robert was an active member of the First Unitarian Congregational Society, a Unitarian Universalist congregation in Brooklyn, NY. With the congregation community as well as political organizations, he worked tirelessly for civil rights and to combat oppression. He also mentored youth within the community.
Robert is survived by a son, William M. (Sarah A.) Patterson of Sterling, VA, grandson Brennan R. Patterson and brother Richard (Yvonne) Patterson of Great Falls, Va. He is also survived by several nieces, nephews and great-nieces and great-nephews. He was preceded in death by his sister Pamela E. Funk of Harpers Ferry, WV.
A memorial service will be held Friday, May 17, 2019, TIME 3:00 pm, at the First Unitarian Congregational Society, 119 Pierrepont Street, Brooklyn, NY. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Fedadse.org an organization he raised funds for over the last fifteen years that worked to rebuild Haiti. Other donations could be made to any organization embracing social or racial change.