Beloved Atlanta Personality ‘Phantom Of The Fox’ Dies

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April 8th, 2016

Joe Patten, 83, known as the “Phantom of the Fox”, who has lived above the historic Fox Theatre in Atlanta for the past 31 years, stands outside the theatre Tuesday, Oct. 12, 2010 in Atlanta. Patten recently sued the Fox board in an attempt to remain living above the venue. In August, the board voted to break Patten’s 1979 lease, which allowed him to live in the 3,640-square-foot apartment for the rest of his life. (AP Photo/Rich Addicks)

Updated at 1:10 p.m. Friday

Joe Patten, affectionately known as the “Phantom of the Fox,” spent much of his life restoring, preserving and living in Atlanta’s fabulous Fox Theatre — twice saving the historic landmark from fire and demolition.

Patten died at Emory University Hospital Midtown at age 89 on Thursday, surrounded by his family and friends, listening to his favorite organ music. He recently had a major stroke, fell into a coma and never woke up, his nephew Greg Patterson said.

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