Okey Leonidas Patteson American political figure. Date of Birth: 14.09.1898 Country: USA

Content:

1. Okey Leonidas Patteson: A West Virginia Statesman
2. Political Career
3. Governorship
4. Major Achievements
5. Administrative Reforms
6. Later Life
7. Memberships and Honors

Okey Leonidas Patteson: A West Virginia Statesman

Early Life and Family

Okey Leonidas Patteson, the son of L.C. Patteson and Lola Groves, was born in Dingess, West Virginia, and raised in Mount Hope, Fayette County. Patteson married Lee Hawse in 1923, and together they had two children, Fannie Lee and Anna Hughes.

Political Career

Fayette County Service and Democratic Politics

Patteson served as Judge of the Fayette County Court from 1935 to 1941 and as Sheriff from 1941 to 1944. In 1944, he was elected as a Democrat to the West Virginia House of Delegates.

Governorship

Patteson was elected Governor of West Virginia in 1948, succeeding Clarence Meadows. He served a single term as governor. During his time in office, Patteson initiated several notable projects.

Major Achievements

Medical Education and Infrastructure

Patteson established the West Virginia University Medical School in Morgantown, a decision that expanded access to medical education in the state. He also initiated the construction of a four-lane highway system, later known as Route 705, connecting Charleston to the West Virginia University Hospitals.

Administrative Reforms

Patteson established the position of Tax Commissioner and granted municipalities the authority to levy sales taxes.

Later Life

After leaving office, Patteson returned to the real estate business and later became president of a local county bank. He died in 1977 at the age of 79.

Memberships and Honors

Civic Involvement
Patteson was involved in numerous organizations, including:
- Wesleyan College of West Virginia Board of Trustees
- Masons
- Knights Templar
- Moose International
- Lions Clubs International
- Chamber of Commerce
- American Legion
- Sons of the American Revolution
- Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks
Honorary Degrees
- Doctor of Laws from the University of West Virginia
- Doctor of Laws from Wesleyan College of West Virginia

Politics

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