Last week, Ulysses News reporter Josephine Jellison sat down with Willie Patton to talk about the memories, experiences, and changes he has witnessed over the course of his 102 years.
When asked what stands out most about the differences between the world he grew up in and today, Patton offered a simple answer.
“Prices mostly,” he said, adding the evolution of automobiles is another change that has stood out to him over the decades.
Patton was born in Pryor, Okla., and eventually made his way to Ulysses in March of 1947 in search of work. Like many during that era, his early career began on a farm before he transitioned into the oil and gas industry.
He later went to work at the Stano Gas Plant and spent much of his career with Amoco, where he remained for several years before eventually retiring.
While Patton’s work life brought stability and opportunity, it is his family life that he credits as his greatest blessing.
Willie and his wife, Marcella, have been married for 76 years and raised three daughters together: Crystal McGlohon, LaRee Smith, and Rhonda Gillen (who passed away in 2023).
When reflecting on what he is most thankful for after more than a century of life, Patton points to faith, family, and community.
“With good help and the Lord’s blessing, a good family, many lovely friends, and a free country to live in,” he said.
Their love story began right here in Ulysses at a place that once brought excitement to the town — a traveling carnival.
At the time, Patton was working on a farm and would often come into town with a group of friends. One evening, while enjoying the rides and festivities, he met Marcella. That chance meeting would lead to a marriage that has now spanned 76 years.
Over the years, Patton has watched Ulysses grow and change, but many of his fondest memories remain tied to the simple joys of community life.
He remembers when the town had a drive-in movie theater that drew families and friends together for an evening under the stars. Fairs and parades were regular highlights of the year, and being part of local clubs and organizations helped build lasting friendships.
Through it all, Patton says church has remained the most meaningful part of his life.
Looking back across more than a century, his story reflects not only personal milestones but also the history of a community that has grown alongside him.
From farm fields and early gas plants to modern highways and technology, Patton has witnessed the transformation of both industry and everyday life.
Yet for him, the things that matter most have remained constant: faith, family, and the people who share life’s journey.
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