Roy Tate Obituary

Roy Gene Tate, age 77, of Yukon, passed away on September 28, 2024. He was born on April 13, 1947, to Marcus and Capitola (Elliott) Tate in El Reno, OK. He graduated from El Reno High School. He received a bachelor's degree from Southwestern Oklahoma State University. He spent several years as a manager for the Unfinished Furniture Store in Bethany before starting his career in education as a teacher. After several years as a teacher, he began taking night classes and earned a master's degree from SWOSU. He started serving as a principal in Billings before moving back to Union City to be the principal at the high school. He later served as a professor of history at Redlands Community College.
Roy enjoyed history in many ways. He loved to read history books. He also enjoyed genealogy and research and could trace his family history back to the 1700s. He was an avid fisherman and took many walks in the park so that he could fish. He was a classic car enthusiast and loved to drive his MG. He also loved traveling.
In 1996, Roy married the love of his life, Cathy, and also became a devoted stepfather. He enjoyed his grandchildren greatly.
Roy is preceded in death by his parents; daughter Wendy Tate; brothers Gerald, Marcus, and William; sisters Peggy Ruth and Mary Corraine.
He is survived by his wife of 27 years, Cathy; sons Chris Tate and Shaler Tate; daughter Mattea Miller and husband Chad; stepson Jeff Mains; stepdaughter Kimberly Spillman and husband Chris; grandchildren Cody and Kasey Spillman and Katy LaBeef; and great grandchild Carter; brother Charles Tate and sister Sally Duke; as well as many friends and family.
Funeral services are being held on Wednesday, October 2, 2024, at 10am at McNeil's Funeral Service. Burial will follow at the El Reno Cemetery.
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