James "PawPaw" W. Tate

James “PawPaw” Tate, 77, of Gastonia passed away September 21, 2017 at Caromont Regional Medical Center.  Mr. Tate was born in High Point, NC on September 6, 1940 to the late George and Virginia Pruett Tate.  He was also preceded in death by his daughter, Rene Tate Bock; Son, Marvin Tate; Brothers, Virgil “Buck” Tate and Billy Ray Tate.  James was known as Big Jim and was a long distance truck driver.  He retired from Old Dominion Trucking.  He was an avid dog lover, especially Jack Russell’s.  He also loved boating, fishing, and visiting the mountains.  He especially loved his family.

James is survived by Diane Tate and Pricilla Tate; his Children, Jimmy Tate (Lynn), Karen Tucker (Mike), Lesa Allen; Step-Children, Jessi Pack, Jackie Green, and Don Green; Sisters, Margaret McQueen, Barbara Jordan, Judy Benton, Glenda Tate, and Betty Lowman; Brothers, Jack Tate and Edgar Tate; 13 Grandchildren; 15 Great-Grandchildren.

A Memorial Service to celebrate James’ life will be held Tuesday, September 26, 2017 at 7:00 p.m. at Benson Funeral & Cremation Services Chapel, Mt. Holly with Pastor Eric Lively officiating.  Visitation will be held one hour prior to the service.  Inurnment will be private.