Carl Lavern Tate, 63, of Rogersville, passed away Sunday, February 17, 2019 at North Alabama Medical Center. He was a 1974 graduate of Lauderdale County High School, a member of First Baptist Church of Rogersville where he was a Deacon and a Sunday school teacher. He retired from International Paper with 38 years of service.
Carl was happiest while coon hunting, watching Alabama Football and sitting in Lauderdale County High School gymnasium watching basketball. Above all, Carl loved and cherished his family, especially his grandchildren. Hearing “Papa” always brought a smile to his face.
Visitation will be Saturday, February 23rd from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at First Baptist Church of Rogersville. Funeral service will follow with Brandon Rainey officiating. Burial will be held in Rogersville Funeral Home Cemetery. Pallbearers will be Larry Sinyard, Richard Herston, Ted Talley, Larry Turpen, Scotty Smith, Eddie Lamar, Michael Haraway and Jerrod Clemons. As a testament to Carl’s passion for Lauderdale County Basketball, all past and present coaches and players are recognized as honorary pallbearers.
Carl was preceded in death by his father, Lavern Tate. He is survived by his dedicated wife of 43 years, Toni Sewell Tate; children, Tia Thornton, Carla (Jerrod) Clemons and Jacob (Kelli) Tate; grandchildren, Grant Thornton, Grayson Thornton, Layne Cross, Colt Clemons and Tate Clemons; mother, Marlene Thomas; stepmother, Sandra Tate; siblings, Linda, Cindy, Bill and Laura; sisters-in-law, Tina (Mike) Belue and Tana (Sammy) Springer; numerous nieces, nephews and friends.
In lieu of flowers, please make donations to the American Heart Association, www.heart.org or to First Baptist Church of Rogersville, 222 College St., Rogersville, AL 35652.
Visit rogersvillfh.com to share memories and condolences with the Tate family
