A data storage system includes a controller that controls a non-volatile memory array including a plurality of blocks each including a plurality of physical pages. The controller implements multiple pattern-based page retirement classes, where each of a plurality of the pattern-based page retirement classes is defined by a respective one of a plurality of different patterns of page indices of physical pages within the plurality of blocks that are to be considered retired from use. For each block among the plurality of blocks, the controller updates an indication of a page retirement class to which the block belongs in response to detection of a retirement-causing error in a data page stored in a physical page of the block. The controller forms block stripes for storing data from the plurality of blocks based on at least the page retirement classes of the blocks.