Leo Tate

Papa Tate, Uncle Leo H. Tate Sr. was called from his labor to his heavenly reward on December 12, 2007, at home after a lengthy illness, at the age of 86. He was born in McKenzie, Tennessee to the union of Birtha and Alonzso Tate, whom preceded him and 10 siblings in death. He attended Webb High School, in Tennessee, Engineering school, Military education, Fort McPherson, Georgia. Sergeant Leo H. Tate after being honorably discharged from the USAFR Airmen in 1949, moved to Toledo, Ohio. He was the recipient of many awards and citations: 2007 Commanders Club Gold Leader, Dad Award 2005, Good Conduct metal, American Service metal, WWII Victory metal, Army Air Forces (Certificate of Appreciation) for War Service and many others. He married Velma Smith, and to this union was born Brenda, Leo Jr., Valerie, and Orlena. He was employed at Willis Day Mayflower for 24 years, Mercy Hospital 15 years and had a janitorial service called "Party Night Janitorial Services" for many years. As a member of American Legion Hyatt-Allen Post #538, he operated as chef of Papa Tate's Kitchen. He was highly respected by many family and friends. Leo was very outgoing, loved his children and taught them much about life and the enjoyment of having the gift and quality of life. For a short time, he was a fashion model for Mixed Company and Shear Innovations Beauty Salons. He was affectionately known as the "Godfather" during those years. He really had a good life and enjoyed it in church, work, dancing, singing, and tinkering and making things in cabinetry, sewing, and doodling with a pencil or pen. He leaves to cherish his memory children, Brenda (James) Holsey, Leo Jr. (Diane) Tate, Valerie Tate and Orlena (Kim Neal); 14 grandchildren; 19 great-grandchildren; brother, Ralph (Willie T.) Tate; a nephew, James (Juanita) Jones; a host of nieces and nephews; a dear friend, Tammy Williams; special family members, Claudine, Claude Jr. and Michelle Wooldridge. Visitation will be Tuesday 2-5 p.m. including American Legion Hyatt Allen Post #538 rites at 3:00 p.m. Dale-Riggs Funeral Home Chapel, wake services Wednesday 5:00 p.m. with funeral services following 6:00 p.m. Upton United Methodist Church. Rev. Dr. Pat McKinstry officiant, burial Thursday 10:00 a.m. with family and friends meeting at the gate of Historic Woodlawn Cemetery at 9:45 a.m. www.dalefh.com