Elder New James (Sonny) Patrick was born on September 9, 1944 to the late James Cornelius and Delilah Taylor Patrick. He received his education from the Holmes County School District.

Elder Patrick was a Professional Truck Driver amongst other things. He was a driver for Merchant Truck Lines for approximately 18 years and retired from Yellow Freight after serving over 30 years as a Professional Truck Driver.

Elder Patrick was called by God into the ministry in the late 1960's. He has been preaching the Word of God since his mid 20's. He served as the Pastor of Moonbeam True Gospel Church of God in Christ, First Pentecostal Church of God in Christ, and New Jerusalem Church of God in Christ. Elder Patrick remained faithfully committed to Jesus Christ, to the church, and his members while daily devoting himself to the study, learning, application, and teaching God's word. Elder Patrick also blessed the community-at-large through prayer and words of encouragement that was broadcast on Sundays at the WMGO Radio Station in Canton, MS.

Elder Patrick committed his life to God, to the work of God, and he was filled with the Power of The Holy Spirit, a power that is greater than this natural world understands. In the pulpit, he made you laugh, made you cry, made sure to offer salvation to all, and would end service with everyone rejoicing and praising God.

Elder Patrick loved to teach the Word of God and to pray.  He and his wife brought up their children to pray, around the clock at the hours of 3, 6, 9, and 12. This was to train them in developing a life of prayer.  Elder Patrick also loved being in the presence of the Lord and His saints.  If church was open, he'd want to be there.  If it wasn't, more than likely, he would have church at the house.

On Friday, October 11, 2019, Elder Patrick's face said it all. He was happy, comfortable, and enjoying the comfort of his own home.  He always quoted scriptures, but his favorite scriptures was from 2 Timothy 2:19 (KJV) "Nevertheless, the foundation of God standeth sure, having this seal, The Lord knoweth them that are His. And, let everyone that nameth the name of Christ depart from iniquity."

His favorite song that he would always sing is: I am going with the Spirit in Jesus Name … Listening to what the Spirit says, I'll go with You all the way. Church, I am going with the Spirit in Jesus' Name.  He would then say, "Folks, that's the only way you must travel; it's by the vehicle of the Holy Ghost."

Elder Patrick is preceded in death by his brothers: Roosevelt, Eugene, L V ("Maine"), and Cornelius Patrick, by his sisters: Willie Mae and Learah Patrick, and Annie Mae Cobbins. Leaving also to cherish his memory are his brothers: John Freeman, Creston ("Peter") Sr., and Willie Patrick, his sisters: Cora Burden, Lillie Mae ("Sally") McGee, Betty Jean Burbank, and Alice Hart.

He married his lovely wife: Louise (Smith) Patrick, who preceded him in death, and with this union are nine children: Jamie (Janette) Patrick, Clark (Terri) Patrick, Stephanie (Andy Ray) Thomas, Stephen (LaTarsha) Patrick, Janice Patrick, Louanna Patrick, Phillip (Andrea) Patrick, Benjamin Patrick, and Little James (Faith) Patrick.