Mr. Claude Lee “C.L.” Tate, age 89, of Rome, GA, passed away on January 24, 2025, at Seven Hills Square, surrounded by his family.

       Mr. Tate was born in Kingston, GA, son of the late Arthur C. Tate and the late Essie Mae Tate. He was also preceded in death by his sister, Janet Waters; his brother, Donald Tate; and his brother-in-law, Bill Waters. He grew up in Rockmart and graduated from Rockmart High School in 1953. After high school, he attended Berry College, where he graduated as Valedictorian of his class in 1957. He also served as president of the Student Government Association his senior year.

       On July 29, 1957, Mr. Tate married a college classmate, Doris Little, of Canton, GA. They both taught for one year at Rockmart High School and then moved to Athens, GA. At the University of Georgia, Mr. Tate earned his master’s degree and later a Specialist degree in Education. After Graduating from the University of Georgia in 1960, Mr. Tate, his wife, and infant son moved to Rome, GA. Mr. Tate began a 32-year career at Model High School where he taught English and Literature. He was chairman of the English Department for over 25 years and served as advisor for the school yearbook and the Key Club. He was named president of the Floyd County Education Association 1965-1966. He was also named Teacher of the Year in Floyd County in 1987-1988.

       For 47 years, Mr. Tate was an active member of West Rome Baptist Church, where he taught Sunday School, was a deacon, and sang in the choir, men’s quartet, and ensembles. He has been a member of Fellowship Baptist Church since 2008.

       Mr. Tate loved to go for walks, work in his yard, read, and sing. His favorite pastime was spending time with his family. He loved the Lord and spent time reading his Bible. After retirement, Mr. Tate volunteered at Mercy Senior Care for several years.

       He is survived by his wife of 67 years, Doris Little Tate; his son, Mark Dennis Tate (Melanie), of Rome, GA; his daughter, Sylvia Tate Chesser (Jay), of Rome, GA; his granddaughter, Jazzmine Loreto; his nephew, Eric Waters (Kathy); his nieces, Jean Evans, Bonnie Medford, Janet Bobeng (Greg), and Denise Huntley; other nieces, nephews, family members, and friends.

       Funeral arrangements are incomplete at this time. 

       Henderson & Sons Funeral Home, Oaknoll Chapel, is honored to serve the family of Mr. Claude Lee “C.L.” Tate.