Pat always had an entrepreneurial spirit even from a young age. His brother often remarked that Pat could “sell refrigerators to Eskimos.” His sales career began at Brown Shoes, working in St. Louis and Cincinnati, but soon he returned home at his brother’s request to join the family office furniture business. There, he excelled, selling furniture by the truckload. Pat later founded Middle Tennessee Steel, and alongside his brother, opened Greene Office Supplies. His business acumen extended to acquiring, operating, and selling Jones and Lang Sporting Goods.
Ultimately, Pat found his greatest fulfillment alongside the love of his life, Debbie Greene. Together, they owned and operated Helm’s Jewelry for 25 years, building a successful business and a joyful marriage.
Pat always found great pleasure in outdoor activities and social pastimes. An avid sportsman, where Pat was a long-time member of Graymere Country Club and Shoal Creek Country Club in Birmingham, AL. Those were his home courses that he loved to play with his wife and many friends over the years. Pat was also a skilled wing shooter, making memorable trips to Argentina and South Dakota to hunt dove and pheasant.
Pat was also a formidable card player. His sharp instincts, insight, and ability to read people made him a strong player. Whether strategizing with precision or bluffing with charm, Pat turned card playing into an experience. His talent at the table mirrored his skills in conversation and storytelling, making him both a exciting player and a captivating companion.
Pat was a quiet yet unwavering pillar of support in his community, never seeking recognition for his contributions. He served as president of the Maury County Chamber, was a past president of the Kiwanis Club of Columbia, TN, and played a significant role in bringing the YMCA to Columbia. His legacy will live on through the lives he touched, the friendships he built, and the positive impact he had on his community.
Pat is survived by his wife of 32 years Debbie Nelson Greene; brother: Mike (Sharon) Greene; nieces and nephews: Scott (Lisa) Greene, Jeff (Connie) Greene, Elizabeth Marlin, Warren (Amelia) Greene, Peggy Scott (Eric) Poe, and Ken Halstead; several great nieces and nephews, and special friend Dr. Belinda Bart. Pat is preceded in death by his brother David Greene and nephew Jay Greene.
The family will receive friends Sunday, March 23, 2025 from 1:00 p.m. until 4:00 p.m. at Williams Funeral Home in Columbia, Tennessee. A private graveside service will be held at a later date where Pat will be laid to rest in The Arbors of Polk Memorial Gardens.
Pallbearers will be Alan Blevins, Ken Halliburton, Greg Tidwell, John Tomlinson, Wayne Goins, and John Totty.
Honorary Pallbearers will be Pat’s Wednesday Night Card Group.
Pat supported his community, never seeking recognition for his contributions. With that in mind, if you choose, in lieu of flowers please make a donation to a charity of your choice in Pat’s name. If you do not have a preference please donate to your local no-kill animal shelter.
Williams Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.
