Mr. J. T. Tate was born on November 29, 1940, in Starkville, Mississippi, to Joe and Mary Ann Tate. He was the fifth child out of eight siblings. He attended the Birmingham public school system, graduating from A. H. Parker High School. After graduating, he enlisted into the United States Army for four years. He later received an honorable discharged. J. T. live a life marked by dedication, compassion, and service to those around him. He found great joy in spending time with his family and loved ones.

J. T. confessed Christ at an early age and attended Friendship Baptist Church. He later became a member of Twenty-Fifth Avenue Baptist Church under the leadership of Reverend D. R. Scarber. He was dedicated to his veteran service and was commander of American Legion. He was also a dedicated volunteer for Disabled American Veterans (DAV).

On May 27, 2026, the day he received his call from Heaven, J. T. peacefully transitioned from this earthly life into the loving arms or our Lord and Savior. Though his physical presence will be missed his legacy of love, laughter, faith, and compassion will continue to live in the hearts of those he leaves behind.

We will forever miss his infectious smile, loving personality, and his way of making everyone he came in contact with smile and laugh. As we mourn his passing, we also celebrate a life well-lived and find comfort in knowing that he is now at peace, reunited with loved ones who preceded him and resting in his heavenly home. He was preceded in death by his parents, Joe and Mary Ann Tate; siblings, Walter J. Tate, Joseph Tate, Katie Burch, and Jo Ella Faniel; grandson, Jerroll R. Lawson; and other loved ones who welcomed him to eternal rest.

He leaves to cherish to his precious memories: his loving daughter, Monica Carr (Everette) of Severn, Maryland; beloved greatgranddaughter, Taleah S. Tolen (Jenavas Williams) of the WP Air Force Base, Ohio; treasured great-great-grandson, Nava Williams of the WP Air Force Base, Ohio; devoted siblings, Martha Tate, Barbara Tate, and Artrice Tate; special niece, Sabrena F. Tate; special nephews, Roderick and George Tate; special significant other, Alfreda Thomas whose love, companionship, and support brought joy to his life; and he also leaves behind a host of nieces,  nephews, extended family members, dear friends who will forever hold his memory close to their hearts.