On an otherwise quiet Tuesday in Marshall, North Carolina, the life of Kenneth Larry Patterson, a 66-year-old local man, was brought to an abrupt and violent end on March 31, 2026. His death, which occurred on Franklin Mountain Road, was the result of gun violence and is believed to have stemmed from a domestic dispute. Patterson, a lifelong tobacco farmer and owner of LMP Truck Factoring, was a well-known figure in his community.
Born in Greeneville, Tennessee, on November 10, 1959,
Patterson was a beloved father, son, and brother. He was an active member of the Middle Laurel Church of God and had a passion for hot rods and spending time with friends. He is remembered for his love for his daughter, his two special dogs, Macy and Thug, and his enjoyment of "rod runs, loafering and going out to eat." At the time of his death, he was engaged to be married.
The investigation into Patterson's death led to the arrest of 70-year-old Douglas Rex Conner, also from Greeneville, Tennessee. The Madison County Sheriff's Office took Conner into custody, charging him with murder. Investigators have stated their belief that the shooting was the result of a "jealous rage" connected to a domestic situation.
Following his arrest, Douglas Rex Conner was held in the Madison County Detention Center as he awaited a court appearance. The community was left to mourn the loss of Kenneth Larry Patterson, with funeral services held at the Middle Laurel Church of God, followed by interment in the Cutshall Cemetery. He was survived by his mother, daughter, brother, and numerous other family members and friends.
