Dale Gordon “Gordy” Patrick

Dale Gordon “Gordy” Patrick, 86, of Morehead City, North Carolina, passed away peacefully at his home on Tuesday, January 13, 2026.

A celebration of Gordy’s life will be held from 1 p.m. until 3 p.m., Friday, January 16th at the Country Club Run Clubhouse, 3403 White Drive in Morehead City.

Gordy was born on December 8, 1939, in Morehead City, North Carolina, to the late Walter and Emily Patrick. A proud veteran, Gordy served in the United States Coast Guard for two years. He was a graduate of Morehead City High School, Class of 1958, and went on to earn 2 Master’s Degree in Education from East Carolina University.

Gordy began his career at West Carteret High School in 1965 as a physical education teacher and went on to build one of the most successful wrestling programs in eastern North Carolina. Serving as head wrestling coach from 1965 to 1984, he compiled an extraordinary record of 201–26–5, leading his teams to 17 conference championships, seven sectional titles, state championships, and multiple undefeated seasons that became legendary within the community. His coaching emphasized sportsmanship, discipline, character, and goal setting—values he carried into every role he held. Gordy was a gifted mentor with a rare ability to bring out the very best in people.

In addition to wrestling, Gordy coached football for several years. His influence extended far beyond athletics and into education administration. He served as a teacher, coach, assistant principal, and principal, with his career spanning Beaufort Middle School and 38 years at West Carteret High School. Over his four decades in education, Gordy was recognized multiple times as Carteret County Principal of the Year. He led with steady guidance, compassion, and heart, often reminding those around him, “If it is to be, it is up to me.”

Even after retiring from formal roles in education, Gordy remained deeply committed to his community. He continued to serve as an advisor and volunteer, including running concession stands where he was known as the “Popcorn Man.” Gordy was always present and supportive wherever he was needed. In recognition of his lifetime of service, Gordy was inducted into the West Carteret High School Athletic Hall of Fame, the North Carolina High School Athletic Hall of Fame, and the National Wrestling Hall of Fame.

Never one to sit still, Gordy also served as a lifeguard for Atlantic Beach for 26 years. In his later years, he enjoyed traveling and seeing new places, but nothing brought him greater joy than time spent with his family. He especially loved attending family gatherings and cheering on his grandchildren and great-grandchildren at their sporting events.

Gordy was a man of integrity, dignity, and quiet strength whose life deeply impacted his family, students, and the entire community he served so faithfully.

Those remaining to cherish his memory are his loving wife, Elizabeth Rambo Patrick; daughters, Patti Patrick, Jodi Cordova (Donald), and Kelly Marek (Kyle), all of Morehead City, NC; brother, Walter “Rusty” Patrick Jr. of South Carolina; grandchildren, Brooke McIntosh (Kevin) of Beaufort, NC, Amy Gomola (Stephen), Klint Marek, and Kamdyn Marek, all of Morehead City, NC; and great-grandchildren, Laney McIntosh and Landon McIntosh.

In addition to his parents, Gordon was preceded in death by his sister, Cheryl Sharp.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Martha’s Mission Cupboard, P.O. Box 603, Morehead City, NC 28557.

Family and friends are welcome to submit online condolences at www.mundenfuneralhome.net.

Arrangements by Munden Funeral Home & Crematory in Morehead City, NC.