Jean Patton Latimer, a native of Nashville, Tennessee, has left an indelible mark on the world of sports and community service. A standout athlete from an early age, Jean excelled in basketball at Pearl High School, leading her team to the State Championship in 1949. Her athletic prowess extended beyond the court; she also won a May Day school race, which paved the way for her illustrious track career.
Jean earned a work scholarship in women’s track from Tennessee Agricultural & Industrial State University (now Tennessee State University). In 1949, she won the 100-meter dash at the National AAU Outdoor Championship, followed by a victory in the 100-meter at the National AAU Indoor Championship in 1950. That same year, she led her university to a historic win at the 21st Tuskegee Relays.
Her remarkable speed and determination continued to shine at the 1950 Los Angeles Coliseum Relays, where she amazed over 50,000 fans by defeating the favored Australian athlete in a dramatic finish. In 1951, Jean earned a spot on the U.S. Women’s Track & Field Team for the inaugural Pan American Games in Buenos Aires, Argentina. There, she won gold medals in the 200 meters and the 4 x 100-meter relay and a silver in the 100 meters, becoming one of only two American athletes to win three medals at the event.
On May 18, 1951, Nashville celebrated “Jean Patton Day” in her honor. Jean was also the first Tennessee State University student-athlete to hold a world record in the 100-yard dash, earning her the title “World’s Fastest Woman.” She graduated in 1953 with a degree in Health & Physical Education.
Jean dedicated her career to supporting children with special abilities as a Certified Recreational Therapist. She served as a camp director, coached the inaugural Special Olympics team in 1968, created fitness trails, and led numerous therapeutic activities. After 28 years, she retired as the Director of Adjunctive Therapy at the Hissom Center in Tulsa, Oklahoma.
Jean Patton Latimer, as she became known after marrying Elihue Latimer, Jr., a fellow TSU graduate, is a mother to two daughters, Leron Patrice and Lisa Cornetta. Her legacy of athletic excellence and compassionate service continues to inspire generations.