Patrick obtained three degrees from the University of Arkansas at Fayetteville, bachelor's, master's, and specialist, all in professional education. From 1964 to 1971, he was a science teacher and basketball coach in Huntsville. He had remained in teaching while serving in the legislature through generous leave permitted by the school district. From 1971 to 1987, Patrick was the superintendent of the small St. Paul School in southwestern Madison County. On leaving the superintendency, Patrick for two years directed truck driving instruction at Northwest Technical Institute in Springdale, Arkansas. The institute provides trained drivers for such firms as the Arkansas-based J. B. Hunt Company.
