James “Jim” William Tate, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, retired school teacher and long-time resident of Satellite Beach Florida, passed away on March 8th at the age of 87.
Jim was born in Lewisburg, Tennessee in 1937 to the late Birdie Mai and Buford Tate. After graduating from Middle Tennessee State University, Jim was commissioned as an officer in the US Army, serving in Germany for over two years. Upon his return to the states, he married the love of his life Jean, and earned his Master’s degree in Education. The couple moved to Satellite Beach to raise their two children, Scott and Diana. Jim taught Psychology and social studies at Eau Gallie High School and often expressed how much he loved working with high school students. He later became a guidance counselor at Central Junior High School. Jim retired in
1998 after 35 years of teaching.
Jim, giving and compassionate by nature, always strove to bring out the best in others and prepare them for success. He carried his strong work ethic, integrity and family values throughout his life and career. A man of faith, Jim was a devoted member of the Satellite Beach, FL Methodist Church serving as an usher for many years. He loved traveling to New Hampshire for the summer and golfing, a fickle game he spent years trying to master. His generosity extended beyond his personal life through his support of numerous organizations such as the Methodist church, Easter Seals, The Shriner’s, The American Red Cross and several Native American charities.
Jim was preceded in death by his parents, Buford and Birdie Mai Tate, his brother Ronald Tate and his beloved daughter, Diana Tate.
He is survived by his wife, Jean Tate of Satellite Beach, FL, his son Scott Tate and daughter-in-law Susan Tate of Texas, his three granddaughters, Courtney, Ashley and Brittany all of Texas, and his nephews Todd Tate and Dustin Tate of Tennessee.
Jim’s legacy of loving people will be remembered by those who knew him. His kindness, generosity, and unwavering care for others left a lasting impact on everyone he met, and his compassionate spirit will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him. May his memory bring comfort to all who mourn his passing.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the United Methodist Committee on Relief or Meals on Wheels.
Family and friends will be received at Beach Funeral Home, 1689 S. Patrick Drive, Indian Harbour Beach, Florida on Monday, March 31, 2025 from 9:30 am until the time of the funeral service at 10:30 am with Pastor Richard Jones, presiding. Interment will take place at Cape Canaveral National Cemetery, 5525 US Highway 1 Mims, Florida at 1:30 pm, where military rites will be accorded by the U.S Army Fort Stewart Military Honor Guard. When arriving at Cape Canaveral National Cemetery, follow the funeral signs to the designated lane provided by the family. The designated time at the cemetery is no later than 1:15 pm.
