Sheila Jane Pate

Sheila Jane Wilburn Pate entered into the presence of her Lord and Savior on June 2, 2026, surrounded by the love of the family she cherished so deeply. While her loved ones grieve her absence, they rejoice in knowing that her faith has become sight and that she is now resting in the eternal peace she so faithfully believed in throughout her life.

Born on September 16, 1953, in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, Sheila lived a life defined by unwavering faith, selfless devotion, and unconditional love. Above all else, she loved God. Her faith was the foundation upon which she built her life, guiding her words, actions, and relationships each day. For more than twenty years, she was a faithful member of Shepherd's Way Christian Church, where she worshiped, served, and shared Christ's love with others.

In 1970, Sheila married the love of her life, Robert Pate. Together they built a beautiful life rooted in faith, commitment, and family. Their marriage was a testament to enduring love and devotion, and Sheila dedicated herself wholeheartedly to being Robert's wife and partner through every season of life.

She was a loving mother to Frankie and Wendy, and her family was the center of her world. Nothing brought Sheila greater joy than spending time with those she loved. She treasured every moment with her children, daughter-in-law Melissa, and her beloved grandchildren, who were truly the light of her life. Analee Marie Pate, Rylee Thomas Pate, Addison Jane Pate, and Colby Price Pate were the apple of her eye, and she spoke of them with immense pride and endless affection. She celebrated every accomplishment, milestone, and memory they shared, never missing an opportunity to remind them how deeply they were loved.

Her love extended far beyond her immediate family. Sheila shared a special bond with her many nieces and nephews, whom she loved dearly.

Sheila was a devoted employee of Emergicare Clinic, where she faithfully served for many years before her retirement in 2024.

Outside of work, Sheila found joy in life's simple blessings. She was an avid reader who could often be found with a good book in hand. She loved traveling with family and friends, creating treasured memories wherever she went. She also expressed her love through cooking, finding great happiness in preparing meals and gathering loved ones around her table. For Sheila, feeding those she loved was one of the many ways she cared for them.

Those who knew Sheila will remember her gentle spirit, thoughtful nature, and remarkable ability to make everyone feel welcomed and valued. Her kindness was quiet but powerful, her love unwavering, and her faith evident in everything she did. She taught those around her the importance of family, compassion, humility, and trusting God through every season of life.

Sheila was preceded in death by her parents, Lester C. Wilburn and Gladys Wilburn; her sisters, Janice Hall, Brenda Thomas, and Diane Wilburn; and her brother, Lester C. Wilburn, Jr.

She is survived by her devoted husband, Robert Pate; her loving children, Frankie Pate and Wendy Pate; her daughter-in-law, Melissa Pate; her cherished grandchildren, Analee Marie Pate, Rylee Thomas Pate, Addison Jane Pate, and Colby Price Pate; a host of beloved nieces and nephews; and numerous extended family members and dear friends whose lives were enriched by her love, kindness, and unwavering faith.

Though her family will miss her deeply, they find comfort in the legacy she leaves behind—a legacy of faith, love, devotion, and grace. The lessons she taught, the memories she created, and the love she shared will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.

"Well done, good and faithful servant." — Matthew 25:23

Graveside services will be held on Monday, June 8, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at Sunset Funeral Home with Bro. Larry Colburn officiating. Family and friends are invited to attend as they celebrate Sheila's life and the many blessings she brought to those around her.

Pallbearers will be Rylee Pate, Colby Pate, Cade Baker, Tommy Pate, Lance Hall, and Jamie Gray.

Honorary Pallbearer will be Dwight Hamner.

Sheila's life was a beautiful reflection of God's love. Though she has left this earthly home, the love she poured into her family, the faith she lived each day, and the countless memories she created will remain forever in the hearts of those who were blessed to know her.