George Walter Pate

George Walter Pate, 90, of Childersburg, Alabama, passed away peacefully on October 25, 2025, in Childersburg. Born on October 16, 1935, in Chilton County, Alabama, George lived a full and meaningful life rooted in family, faith, and community.

A proud graduate of Childersburg High School, George went on to build a long and steady career at the local papermill formerly known as Kimberly Clark. Like many from his hometown, he found purpose and camaraderie in his work there. He was fortunate to retire early at the age of 55 in 1990—a milestone that allowed him to spend more time doing what he loved most: enjoying life with his family and friends.

George served his country with honor and dedication as a member of the National Guard for 35 years. His commitment to service reflected the strength of character that defined him throughout his life.

For over six decades, George was a devoted member of First Methodist Church in Childersburg. His faith was a cornerstone of his life and guided him through every season.

He married his high school sweetheart, Audrey Shoemaker, and together they shared an extraordinary bond that lasted 69 years. Their love story was one of deep devotion and enduring partnership. George affectionately called her "Red," and some of their most cherished moments were spent together on their back porch or traveling hand-in-hand.

George had a zest for life’s simple pleasures. He took great pride in maintaining his yard—ensuring it always looked its best—and found joy in planting tomatoes each summer. He loved playing golf and traveling with those closest to him. The beach held a special place in his heart; it was there that he created lasting memories with his children and grandchildren—building sandcastles in cut-off jean shorts and a bucket hat that became part of the family lore.

An avid Auburn football fan through and through, George’s loyalty ran deep. When his granddaughter once expressed interest in attending the University of Alabama for nursing school, he famously replied with loving conviction: “Sugar, I am not paying for you to go to THAT school.”

Music also played an important role in George’s life. A lifelong Elvis Presley fan, one of his treasured memories was taking his daughter Jan to see Elvis perform live in Birmingham during one of the King’s final concerts.

George found immense joy watching his grandchildren and great-grandchildren play sports—especially baseball—and he never missed an opportunity to cheer them on from the sidelines.

To know George was truly to love him. Since his passing, those who knew him have described him as “a good one,” “a special man,” “wonderful,” “kind,” “caring,” and “loving.” All are true. But to his family, he was so much more: dependable, loyal, strong—a steady presence who served as their rock through all of life’s ups and downs.

George Walter Pate leaves behind a legacy built on love, laughter, loyalty, and unwavering strength. His memory will continue to live on through the countless lives he touched.

May his memory bring comfort to all who knew and loved him.

George is survived by his wife Audrey Pate; Son, George Alan Pate and wife Laurel (Brasher); Daughter, Jan (Pate) Kromer and husband Don; Grandchildren, Zeke Pate (Kiki), Emmie Edwards (Brandon), Emanuel Kromer (Shasta), Kenneth Kromer (Dawn); Great and Great-Great Grandchildren, Emma Pate, Jasper Edwards, Palmer Edwards, Maddox Kromer, Sawyer Kromer, Paisley Huff, Jackson Huff, Luna Royal, Kathryn Royal, Rocky McDaniel, Lani Huff (Dewayne) and Noah Royal. He was preceded in death by his parents Ralph and Roberta Pate and his loving brothers-Sam and Connie Mac Pate.

Services will be held Wednesday, October 29, 2025 at 11:00 AM at First Methodist Church of Childersburg with the Rev. Mike Holland officiating with burial to follow at Greenhill Cemetery. Visitation will be at First Methodist Church from 10-11 prior to the service.

Serving as pallbearers are Emanuel Kromer, Kenneth Kromer, Zeke Pate, Andy Shoemaker, William Fuller and Brandon Edwards.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in George's memory may be made to Childersburg First Methodist Church, 603 4th Street SW, Childersburg, AL 35044 US, https://www.cburgfmc.org/.