Dorothy Tate

Dorothy Neugen Tate Ward was born on January 3, 1941 to now deceased Miss Thelma Tate in Knoxville, TN. She passed away peacefully on March 14, 2025 at Morning Side House of Collegeville, PA. She resided there for a short time to be near her son, leaving Conyers, Georgia.

Dorothy attended Knoxville City School and graduated from Austin High School with the class of 1958. She also graduated from Knoxville College with the class of 1962. She was a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. Dorothy attended Payne Avenue Baptist Church as was baptized under the pastorate of Rev. Horace J. Bailey. She married Bernard A. Ward, Sr., the love of her life. To this union was born two children: son Bernie Jr., and daughter Karin E. Ward.

Dorothy was employed by the Social Security Administration, where she worked for many, many years. She retired there late, after earning the title of Section Chief.

Dorothy moved to Conyers, Georgia and became a member of Conyers First Methodist Church. She enjoyed working with the Sunday School and Vacation Bible School. Through Bernard’s work they resided in many states to include: Maryland, Pennsylvania, Indiana, and eventually settling in Conyers, Georgia. In her retirement, she and her husband had the opportunity to enjoy many cruises and travel to many countries. The Lord blessed her with many fond memories through family, friends, and the church.

She leaves to cherish her memory: son Bernie Jr.; daughter Karin E. Ward; sister Carolyn Lewis; sister-in-law Diane (Ron) Damper; Aunts Jo Ann Sanders and Jackie Croom; Uncles Clarence (Doris) Tate, George (Emma) Tate, and all of Knoxville. Many thanks to the staff at Morningside House of Collegeville (PA.)

Family will receive friends Saturday April 12, 2025 from 12:30 to 1pm at Payne Avenue Missionary Baptist Church, 2714 Martin Luther King Jr Ave, Knoxville, TN 37914, with celebration of life services to follow. Interment at Sherwood Memorial Gardens. Minister Kirktina Brown, Officiating. Final arrangements entrusted to Jarnigan & Son Mortuary. www.jarniganandson.com