Elaine Paterson

Elaine A. Paterson, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, October 15th, 2025, in Maryville, Tennessee at the age of 87. She was born on September 18th, 1938, in London, England.

From a childhood shaped by wartime London, Elaine's life was one of resilience, courage, and love. At the age of 19, she met Norman Saunders, an airman serving in the United States Air Force. After the two married in London in 1958, they crossed the pond and built a family. Throughout Norman's Air Force career, Elaine made a home wherever they were stationed, living on bases across the United States and abroad. Elaine was known for her quick wit, charm, and her unmistakable British humor. She loved a good cup of tea, a well-written book, and a thoughtful letter - often sending notes to friends and family just to let them know she was thinking of them. Her love for reading stayed with her throughout her life, and she had a gift for storytelling. She never met a stranger and always found a connection-often through a shared love of books. A proud Tennessee Volunteers fan, Elaine could always be found cheering on her team. She adored animals and found joy in their companionship, especially during quiet afternoons spent watching ducks by the pond. Elaine was a gifted seamstress who had a lifelong talent for sewing and knitting, creating countless handmade treasures for her loved ones. A devoted mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, Elaine cherished time spent with her family above all else. Elaine will be remembered for her strength, grace, and unwavering love for her family. She will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

Elaine is preceded in death by her parents Roland and Marie Brookfield, as well as her sister Eve Paterson. Elaine is survived by her daughter Susan Hutcheson (Mark), son Martin Saunders (Dawn), daughter Jennifer Shepherd (Mark); grandchildren Brooks Hutcheson (Hannah), Clint Hutcheson, Lauren Bowler (Jake), Dylan Hutcheson, Grady Saunders (Savanna), Alexandria Shepherd and Thomas Shepherd; great-grandchildren River Hutcheson, Forrest Hutcheson, and Charles Thomas Saunders.

The family will hold a private celebration of life service in Montezuma, GA on November 15th, 2025. She will be eternally laid to rest at Grandview Cemetery in Maryville, TN.

We encourage you to please share a memory of Elaine and/or your personal condolences with our family by visiting her memorial webpage and guestbook at www.companionfunerals.com. Companion Funeral & Cremation service of Oak Ridge, TN is honored to assist the family with these arrangements.