James "Jim" Edward Tate

James “Jim” Edward Tate, formerly of Groesbeck, passed away peacefully at his home surrounded by his family, at age 68.  He courageously fought his battle with esophageal cancer for nine months before Jesus called him to his forever home. Visitation will be Friday evening, June 14, 2019 from 6-8 PM at Williams Funeral Home in Garland.  Funeral services will be held at First United Methodist Church of Garland on Saturday June 15, 2019 at 10:00 AM, with arrangements being handled by Williams Funeral Home.    He will be buried at Blue Ridge Cemetery (FM 1771, Marlin, TX), with graveside services at 3:30 PM  on Saturday, June 15.     Jim was born on October 7, 1950 in Marlin, Texas to Ed and Norma Tate. Jim graduated high school from Groesbeck High, and moved to Commerce, Texas to later graduate from East Texas State where he received a bachelors and master’s degree.  The real journey began August of 1972, Jim married the love of his life, Ann Dunn while finishing out his degree.  He then began his professional career first as a shop teacher prior to embarking on his true calling as a salesman!  Although Jim left the teaching profession for a career in sales, what made him great is that he was always teaching or coaching those who had the pleasure of working alongside him.  Jim had 35 years with ITW Paslode; he was a dedicated and passionate employee who built lasting relationships with his co-workers and clients. Jim’s true passion in life was loving his family and friends! He spent the last several years after retiring from ITW Paslode indulging in the blessings of life.  He was steadfast in his faith, a history buff, incredible storyteller, and an avid woodworker…aka the “toolman” and involvement in the “Old Geezer” Outreach Ministry Program at FUMC.   Jim’s smile was contagious, and he had a heart of gold. Jim is preceded in death by his father Ed.  He is survived by his mother Norma Tate of Groesbeck; his loving wife and best friend of 46 years Ann; his son Clint and daughter-in-law Lesley Tate' his daughter Beth and son-in-law Michael Gans; his precious grandchildren Tate and Lizzie Gans & Lane and Will Tate; his brother Greg and sister-in-law Mary Ellen Tate of Groesbeck (Blue Ridge) and the many nieces, nephews, and great nieces and nephews all of which he loved deeply. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be sent to: God’s Old Geezers FUMC Garland or The Learning Academy FUMC Garland; and/or First United Methodist Church Garland.  Address:  801 West Avenue B Garland, TX 75040