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06-22-1940 to 01-01-2024
Melvin Wendell Tate was born June 22, 1940, to his late mother and father Theodore and Beulah Tate (Walker). Melvin deported his life on January 1, 2024, at the University of Tennessee Medical Center. he was a lifelong member of First AME Zion church. He was educated in the Knox County School system until he relocated to Jefferson City where he graduated from Nelson Merry High School in 1959. Melvin served in the United States, Marine Corps. Melvin retired from Knoxville Utilities Board after 32 years.
He was the commissioner for the Baby Road runners organization for 40 years; he was inducted into the Knoxville Hall of Fame and received NAACP Unsung Heroes Award.
Melvin leaves to cherish his memories his devoted wife, Mary J. Tate of 65 years; his son Gregory Tate, Sr.; Daughters Vanessa Smith, Vanessa (Peaches) Tate, Beverly Moore; sisters, Mary (William)Carter; Sisters in Law: Ernestine Williams, Denise Smith, Elizabeth Humphrey,
Brothers: Kenneth (Vivian) and Phillip Smith and a host of family members too many to mention. Melvin loved his grand children, great grand children to mention a special nephew, George Kemp;
Receiving of friends January 9, 2024 from 11:00 AM, Celebration to follow 12:00 PM at Greater Warner Tabernacle Baptist Church.
I'm so sad to hear Paula Sue has passed. We grew up in the same neighborhood. May she R I
Deepest sympathy and may the PEACE of GOD that surpasses all understanding bring comfort to ALL. Continual prayers for ALL.
I extend my deepest sympathies to you and your family and pray that God will comfort you. Wishing you peace to bring you comfort, courage to face the days ahead and loving memories to forever hold in your heart.
Ashley Sackett
To Mary Tate and Family,
There are no words that can express the depth of sorrow for the passing of Melvin Tate aka "Mr. T" as the Baby Roadrunner Community knew him as. I will miss seeing my neighbor sitting under the patio deck laughing as we talked across the street. So many memories our families have shared over the years in the neighborhood. Right now your hearts are heavy and tears may come to your eyes but know you all are in our hearts and prayers through this time of sorrow.
Amen
Mary, I'm truly sorry to hear about the loss of Cousin Melvin. He was always so welcoming to the Detroit family when we visited Knoxville. My deepest condolences to you and the family during this difficult time. Praying for my Knoxville family.
Michele and Chauncey Harris
Sanford, North Carolina