Jerry Wayne Tate's Obituary
Celebrating the Life of Jerry Wayne Tate
July 31st, 1944 - December 3rd, 2025
Family and friends celebrate the beautiful life of Jerry Wayne Tate, whose journey began in Nashville on July 31st, 1944 and spanned 81 vibrant years. His presence filled each day with purpose and good cheer.
He grew up in Nashville, TN and attended Central High School until he joined the Marine Corps in 1961. Those early classrooms shaped a steady work ethic that guided the rest of his life.
In 1961 he entered military service, earning the rank of LCpl. He served his time in boot camp at Paris Island, North Carolina. During his 10 year servitude, his assignments took him to Camp LeJeune, North Carolina and Twentynine Palms, California. He then served 15 years with Tennessee Army National Guard where his assignments took him to Columbia and Nashville, Tennessee.
After retirement, he went on to complete his Civil Service Career at Dobbins Air Force Base - Marietta, GA, Naval Coastal System Center – Panama City Beach, FL and Air Force Base – Pensacola, FL.
Away from duty, Jerry found joy in fishing, going antiquing, cooking, grilling, and traveling. Time with his wife of 56 years, Sue and their family turned ordinary days into lasting memories. These simple pleasures formed the heartbeat of his days.
Jerry’s love continues through Sue Moss Tate and their children Terry (Christy) George, Ray (Melissa) Tate, Renea (Erick) Tate-Coker, and Melissa Gail Hilburn. His grandchildren Ericka (Harris) Coker-Marshall, Brett Coker, Caroline (Chase) Tate-Dorris, Reagan Tate, and Kat Coker carry his story forward. They will remember his passion for family and life’s simple joys.
He is also remembered by his sisters Shirley Mayo and Elaine Gunn, and by his brother Richard M. (Jerelyn) Tate. Jerry joins his parents Arthur L. Tate Jr. and Ruby Eurene Tate, and brothers Arthur (Bootsie) L. Tate II, William Tate, and Bobby Tate; sister, Carol Sue “Tootie” Moss; honorary brother, Buford Moss who passed before him.
Jerry’s story shines with genuine service and a spirit of exploration. His memory will guide those he loved to enjoy each day with the same open heart.
Arrangements entrusted to Spring Hill Funeral Home, 5110 Gallatin Pike, Nashville, TN 37216. https://www.springhillfh.com. 615-865-1101.
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