Margretta M.

Patterson

Margretta Martin Patterson, affectionately known to all as "Gretta" and to her grandchildren as "GeeGee," was called home to rest on Sunday afternoon, February 15, 2026, surrounded by the warmth and love of her family. Born on December 12, 1952, to the late John William Coppedge, Jr. and Thelma Coppedge Taylor, Gretta's life was defined by her unwavering faith, her professional dedication, and an immense, tender heart.

Gretta's spiritual journey began at an early age at Shiloh Baptist Church, where she sang in the Young Adult choir under the tutelage of her godmother, Sister Eula Wilson. Her walk with the Lord eventually led her to Saint Paul Baptist Church, where she remained a faithful member for many years—from their days on Marshall Street to their current home on Creighton Road.

A proud 1971 graduate of JFK High School, Gretta went on to study Finance at Smithdeal-Massey Business College. She found her professional calling within the Virginia Department of Social Services, where she served the community with integrity and compassion until her retirement in 2017.

While Gretta was known for her work and her faith, her greatest masterpiece was her family. As "GeeGee," she shared an inseparable, magical bond with her grandchildren; they were her greatest joy, and she was their constant light. Following her mother's passing in 2020, she stepped into the role of family matriarch, a responsibility she embraced with grace and wisdom.

Twenty years ago, Gretta reconnected with the love of her life and devoted partner, Charles E. Squire. Their relationship was truly unique—a testament to deep companionship and mutual devotion. Charles was her greatest advocate, and together they built a life filled with laughter and shared purpose.

In addition to her parents, Gretta was preceded in rest by two brothers, John William Coppedge, III and Anthony Tyrone Coppedge.

She leaves behind a rich legacy of love to be cherished by her fiancé and life partner, Charles E. Squire; two children, Tracie LaFawn Martin and Oliver C. Martin, III; five adored grandchildren, Omari (Callie) M. Martin, Brandon J. Ballard, MiKayla J. Aziz, Mya J. Newton, and Olivia A. Martin; seven siblings, Angela Coppedge-Jackson (Severn, MD), Charmaine Mills, Delbert Muhammad, Pauletta (Larry Sr.).James, Lamont Garrett, Michell Garrett, and Wanda Mabry; aunt, Antionette Dabney; uncle, George Coppedge; a wide circle of nieces, nephews, cousins; sister-in-law, Janice S. Coppedge; brother-in-law, Michael Hawkins; bonus brothers, Rodrigous Robinson and A. Ramon Moore; dear friends, Charlene Leacost and Mildred Douglas; extended family and friends and her beloved Saint Paul Baptist Church family.

As her earthly journey ends, we take comfort in knowing she has heard the words, "Well done, good and faithful servant." She is finally at peace, resting eternally in the arms of her Creator.

Remains rest at Scott's Funeral Home, 115 E. Brookland Park Blvd. where viewing will be held from 10 a.m. until 7 p.m. Tuesday, February 24, 2026. Funeral services will be held 11 a.m. Wednesday, February 25 at St. Paul's Baptist Church, 4247 Creighton Road. Interment Forest Lawn Cemetery.

Livestreaming will begin at 10:50 a.m. https://control.resi.io/webplayer/video.html?id=1383d9a0-6330-4171-a0a5-e35546337a1e