LEBANON, Tenn. (WTVF) — Family and friends gathered in Smyrna to remember a gas station clerk who was shot and killed while on the job.
Nick Patterson was only 34 years old when he was shot and killed in the early morning hours on August 30 while working at the Twice Daily store on Stonecrest Boulevard.
"He's just always been one of the greatest guys. He knows all of your family members. He could even know the name of your pets. He'll know what situation you've been going through," his friend Cameron Taylor said.
For nine years he served the Smyrna community with love and attention.
The ceremony happened at Carpe Cafe in Smyrna from 5 to 7 p.m.
To everyone who attended, Nick Patterson meant something special.
Police say the gunman, Keanthony Williams, demanded money from Patterson — who complied, then Williams shot and killed Patterson before taking off.
Debbie Patterson said her son was loving and hard working.
"I really miss my son and it was very unfair and cruel what happened to him. But we are so thankful for the community that has been so passionate about the kind things that they've been saying about my son." she said.
During one their hardest moments, she wants to remind people to love each other.
"If there's one thing we want to be remembered for, and the purpose of this evening, is to spread kindness and compassion to others," she said.
Williams is now charged with attempted aggravated robbery and first-degree murder in the case.
Patterson had worked for Twice Daily for nine years.
Last week, Twice Daily held a fundraiser for Patterson, donating a portion of sales to his family. We've learned customers showed up, pumping 14,000 gallons of fuel, raising about $7,000.
