Kenneth Tate

Mr. Kenneth Lee Tate, 83, of Merritt Island, FL wpassed away on January 5, 2019 after a battle with lung cancer.  He was a native of the Gassaway, TN community born on January 27, 1935.  He was preceded in death by his parents, Lytle and Pauline Tate; wife, Shirley Milligan Tate; and a brother, Hilton Tate.

He is survived by his daughter, LeAnn (Charlie) Powers of Merritt Island, FL; grandson, Andy & Karen Powers and their children, Amelia and Landon Powers of Rockledge, FL; grandson, Christopher (Stephanie) Powers and their children, Emma, Morgan, and Gavin Powers of Port St. John, FL; granddaughter, Michelle (David) Thurner and their children, Courtney Cadiz and Delaney Thurner of Lakeland, FL; brothers-in-law, Jack Milligan, Jim Milligan, Boyd Gentry; sister-in-law, Betty Billings; and many nieces and nephews that he loved so very much.

He was a veteran of the US Army and a mechanic.  He and his family moved to Florida and made their home.  They never looked back and loved it.  They enjoyed going fishing and doing things together.  Their home was always open for family tocome visit.  Family were welcome to stay at the house and they made sure you wouldn’t go hungry. Fun loving, with great stories to tell and could make you laugh with his carrying on and shenanigans, but not afraid to tell you what he thought.  He enjoyed decorating their home for different holidays. He loved spending time with family, especially his grandchildren, great grandchildren, and his dogs.

The family will hold a graveside committal service at Riverside Garden on Thursday, July 4th at 10 am with David George officiating.  In keeping with their laidback nature, they want all who attend to be casual, right down to the flip flops and shorts.  Share thoughts and memories with them at www.smithfuneralhomewoodbury.net  Smith Funeral Home, 303 Murfreesboro Rd. Woodbury, TN 37190, 615-563-5337

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