John Wilson Tate, Jr.

John W. Tate, aka. John Bill and Little Bill, passed away on Monday, December 11, 2023, in Rutherford County. John was 54 years old at time of death. His loving, devoted wife, Nancy Young Tate, and his beautiful, sensitive daughter, Sidney R. Tate of Chattanooga, whose mother is Jennifer Keener of Palmer, was at his side at time of death. John’s father was John Wilson Tate Sr., son of Franklin Tate and Myrtle Griffin Tate. Donna Lou Anderson (Buck) Adams whose parents were Sherman and Cleo Anderson, was John’s mother. All were residents of Grundy County.

Dear John was “Uncle” to Bobby L. White, of Palmer, who currently lives in Daytona, Fla., Catherine Flury Johns, of Tracy City,  who now resides in Seattle, WA, and Amber Deonna Frederick of Grundy County, plus many cousins who are scattered near and far. John had a strong, dedicated sense of family and he loved us all to his last breath.

John W. Tate Sr.’s siblings were Hollace (Buck) Tate, Marshall Tate, Elsie T. Sedusky, Margaret T. Thomas, Rosalee Bryant, Albert (Snooks) Tate, and Franklin (June) Tate. Mother’s siblings were Max Anderson, Linda (Gail) Walters, Edd and Ted Anderson. The remaining family is Bill and Linda Anderson of Tracy City, TN., Bob and Betty Anderson of Franklin, TN. Ginger Tate Docherty and Marsha Tate Cowan, are sisters who both reside in Hixson, TN.

John’s passing has left a huge hole in our family. A wise soul, with an incredible sense of humor, he had a unique way of expressing his thoughts. Those of you who know him know what I am talking about. He always had a smile for everyone and seemed to know everyone wherever we went. Although battling Polycystic Kidney disease for over five years, he never complained. A brave soldier against a dreadful disease and we admired his brave approach and strong attitude. He greatly appreciated life and was the ultimate optimist. He looked for the good, expected the best, and always had a kind word for all. His great love of the Buffalo Bills was contagious. Truly an adamant fan regardless of their wins or losses. Fortunately, the Bills won against the Chiefs last Sunday, this proved to be his last game which he watched the day before his demise. That was a blessing for him. His second passion was playing pool. Win or lose, he was a serious competitor and was always ready to go play at any given time.

Our family loved John greatly and we all look forward to seeing him again one day. Truly, the only peace in our intense sorrow is knowing he will overcome death. Rest in peace little brother.

Acts 2:24 – But God Raised Him up again, putting an end to the agony of death, since it was impossible for Him to be held in its power.

The care of Mr. John Wilson Tate, Jr. and his family has been entrusted to the staff of Cremation Society of Tennessee. To share words of comfort and condolences, please visit www.cremationsocietyoftn.com