Robert T. Paterson

Robert T. Paterson, 80, of Brant Beach, NJ passed away on Wednesday, May 22, 2024. Born in Trenton, NJ. He was the son of (late) Robert and Elizabeth Paterson. Robert was a graduate of Notre Dame High School, Lawrenceville, NJ 

In April 1967 to November of 1972, Robert took an oath to serve on the Trenton Police force to protect the citizens of Trenton and the citizens of the State. After serving 5 years as a Trenton Police Officer, Robert knew his true calling was to start a career as a NJ Corrections Officer. From July 1976 to July 2002, he worked his way through the ranks to promotion of Chief and Administrator for NJ Department of Corrections. In August of 2007, he was appointed by former Governor Jon S. Corzine as Director of Operations for all prisons in the State of New Jersey.  Robert retired in June 2010. Robert also served his country and enlisted in the United States Navy from 1960-1962.

Robert is survived by his wife Shirley Sysol-Paterson, Brant Beach, NJ, his three siblings, James, Virginia, and Kathleen, his four children, Robert Paterson, Debra Lee Paterson, Carolyn Jacondin, and Brian Paterson, his four stepchildren, Edward Sysol, Tim Sysol, Dan Sysol, and Heather Width-Sysol. He also leaves to cherish wonderful memories for his 21 grandchildren and his 11 great grandchildren, and many friends and former colleagues. He is predeceased by his brother Donald.

Robert enjoyed spending time with his family, going to the beach, fishing, and cooking. He was known for cooking his grandmother’s “famous” corn fritters. He loved watching some of his favorites sports teams to include the Philadelphia Phillies and the Philadelphia Eagles.

A memorial gathering will take place on Thursday, May 30, 2024, from 10am until his Mass of Christian Burial at St. Francis Of Assisi, 4700 Long Beach Blvd., Brant Beach, NJ 08008. A private burial will follow. 

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Veterans of Foreign Wars at The Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) and/or St. Francis of Assisi Parish and Center at Donate — St. Francis of Assisi Parish LBI (stfrancisparishlbi.org)