Lee Ellis Tate

"I've lived a good life!" "Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, before you were born I set you apart" Jeremiah 1:5 (NIV) Lee Ellis Tate was born to the late Luther and Ada Tate on August 27, 1927 in Sealy, TX. He had four brothers, Wilma, Arthur, and Luther who preceded him in death; and, one brother Willie remains. Lee's three sisters, Emma, Ada and Jennie Tate also preceded him in death. But God, -- He sent another sister angel, Earline Knapp Mitchell Mayo that was by his side "Sisterly" until his death. At the age of 12, Lee traveled to Houston, Texas just a few years after his Mother passed away. Shortly thereafter, and a few more miles away he established residency in Arcola, TX. with the Knapp Family. At the helm was Mr. and Mrs. Rudy Knapp, affectionally known as "Big Mama and Big Daddy" who raised him as one of their own. They instilled in him Christian values that would later determine his trademark characteristic as "a lover of people and a genuine giver". As Lee matured and became independent he returned his gratitude by making sure that as Big Mama and Big Daddy entered their golden years they had what they needed and wanted to the best of his ability. Love and marriage united Lee Tate and Marie Livingston in 1965. Both worked at the Veterans Administration Hospital together until she retired. Mrs. Marie Tate embraced both of Lee's sons, Clifford C. Tate and Terrance Ellis Tate as her own; but, most admirably, she deposited so many wonderful life lessons and bestowed many memories,---as she was praised an amazing stepmother who assisted with rearing Terrance wholeheartedly. Lee and Marie Tate remained a loving couple that exemplified a genuine lasting relationship until her demise in June 2005. Professionally Lee worked at the Veterans Administration Hospital for 35 years as an Electrical Maintenance Shop Employee until he was able to retire early at age 55. The retirement was a benefit of his energetic and eagerness as a successful entrepreneur with his trash hauling business (still operational today) which serviced the communities of Rosharon, Manvel, Alvin, Fresno and surrounding areas. Customers just loved him! Another means of support Lee engaged in was raising livestock and selling to markets. He enjoyed staying busy and working diligently with his hands. Lee loved the outdoors and all it's offerings. Brother Lee, 33O, was a member of Griffin Lodge Masonic #292 where he served as Worshipful Master. He was also a member of the affiliated Higher Degree Departments. Most notably, Deacon Lee Ellis Tate was without question a God-fearing man who embraced his faith. His church affiliations include Fourth Missionary Baptist Church, under the leadership of the late Rev. E. Stanley Branch where he was a member for 40 plus years and served many years as Deacon, and New Hope Missionary Baptist Church in Stafford, TX under the leadership of Rev. E. W. Cooper, where he served as Deacon for over 12 years. He leaves in God's care: A brother, Willie Tate, A sister, Earline Knapp Mitchell Mayo (James), Sons - Clifford C. Tate (Alma) and Terrance Ellis Tate (Kathren Yvonne), grandchildren - Chonia Tate Smith, Clifford Wayne Tate, Patrick Tate, Jewel Tate, Arinee Tate, Andrew Ellis Tate, Antoinette Auzenne, great-grands, nieces, nephews, extended family and many friends.