James Tate of Springfield, Mo., passed away Saturday, September 3, at the age of 88. He was born on January 5, 1928, to Lawson and Opal Tate who joined the Lord on May 25, 1979, and December 4, 1978, respectively. James was married to his high school sweetheart Elaine Tate (Little), on April 4, 1949 and preceded him in death on October 17, 2009.

James was a long time employee and retiree from Frisco and Burlington Northern Santa Fe Rail Roads. He enjoyed square dancing, trout fishing and was an exceptional cook. Kind of heart and with giving spirit, Jim volunteered with the Springfield Meals on Wheels program and provided care to family members for many years.

While James will join siblings Virginia Kifer (Tate), Glen Tate, and Nadine Bouchez (Tate) in heaven; he is survived by sisters Mary Travers/Schlichting (Tate) and Deloris Gouran (Tate); many nieces and nephews; and brothers and sisters in Christ. Jim was also loved by a whole host of friends and staff from Quail Creek Skilled Nursing where he was a long term resident. Jim was lovingly cared for and supported by his close friends and relatives - Bill and Onari Bowler. He will be missed by all who knew him.

Funeral services will be held on Saturday, September 10, 2016 at 10:00 am in Gorman-Scharpf University Chapel. Visitation will be held from 9:30 am until the time of service. Burial will follow in Hazelwood Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to the National Avenue Christian Church, 1515 S. National, Springfield, MO 65804.