James “Jim” Edward Tate

Jim was born on October 7, 1950, in Marlin, Texas to Ed and Norma Tate.

James “Jim” Edward Tate, age 68, passed away peacefully at his home surrounded by his family. He courageously fought his battle with esophageal cancer for nine months before Jesus called him to his forever home.

Jim was born on October 7, 1950, in Marlin, Texas to Ed and Norma Tate.

Jim graduated high school from Groesbeck High and moved to Commerce, Texas to later graduate from East Texas State where he received a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree from East Texas State University.

The real journey began August of 1972, Jim married the love of his life, Ann Dunn while finishing out his degree. He then began his professional career first as a shop teacher prior to embarking on his true calling as a salesman! Although Jim left the teaching profession for a career in sales, what made him great is that he was always teaching or coaching those who had the pleasure of working alongside him. Jim had 35 years with ITW Paslode; he was a dedicated and passionate employee who built lasting relationships with his co-workers and clients.

Jim’s true passion in life was loving his family and friends! He spent the last several years after retiring from ITW Paslode indulging in the blessings of life. He was steadfast in his faith, a history buff, incredible storyteller, and an avid woodworker…aka the “tool man” and involvement in the “Old Geezer” Outreach Ministry Program at FUMC. Jim’s smile was contagious, and he had a heart of gold.

Jim is preceded in death by his father Ed. He is survived by his mother Norma, his loving wife and best friend of 46 years Ann, his son Clint and daughter-in-law Lesley Tate, his daughter Beth and son-in-law Michael Gans; his precious grandchildren Tate and Lizzie Gans & Lane and Will Tate; his brother Greg and sisterin-law Mary Ellen Tate; and many nieces, nephews, and great-nieces and nephews all of which he loved deeply.

Funeral services will be held at First United Methodist Church of Garland on Saturday June 15, 2019 at 10:00 AM with a burial service at 3:30 PM at Blue Ridge Cemetery. FM 1771 Marlin, Texas. There will be a visitation on Friday evening, June 14th, 2019 from 6-8 PM at Williams Funeral Home in Garland.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be sent to:

God’s Old Geezers FUMC Garland or The Learning Academy FUMC Garland

First United Methodist Church Garland. Address: 801 West Avenue B Garland, TX 75040