Mary Louise Tate

Mary Louise Tate, age 96, entered eternal life peacefully on January 4, 2015, surrounded by family and friends. Mary was born September 12, 1918 in Montgomery, Alabama to Leondas and Kansadie Provence. At an early age, she was baptized and a member of Faith in Action Church. Aunt Mary, as she was so affectionately called, loved God, her family, reading and writing. Her love for writing, eating the proper foods and remaining healthy lead her on a wonderful journey as a Senior. At 93 years young, Aunt Mary became an author and published a book titled, Longevity for Seniors, which touted healthy eating in order to live a long and prosperous life. Mary met and married Paul Henry Tate while living in St. Louis, Missouri. Prior to meeting Paul, Mary expanded her training to become a Beautician. As an aspiring beauty student, Mary received a scholarship in Cosmetology at the Argus Exposition at the Masonic Auditorium in St. Louis, Missouri. Mary was an active member of Metropolitan AME Zion Church where she faithfully served for many years. Mary was also the Secretary of the New Salem Manor Resident Council serving diligently on several committees with other senior residents. Mary also actively participated in the Computer Lab at New Salem Manor which was taught by her niece, Barbara. Mary Louise Tate was preceded in death by husband, Paul Tate, parents Leondas and Kansadie Provence, three brothers, Leslie, Emanuel and James, three sisters, Sarah, Sadie Fern and Fannie Mae and one great nephew, Kye. Aunt Mary’s warm spirit, wit and intelligence touched her family. Aunt Mary was dearly loved and treasured and will be missed greatly by her nieces, Barbara and Beverly Motley, special cousins, Jay and Olice Richardson, Angela, Jay and Stephanie. She was a treasure to a host of special friends including, Joseph T. Allen, James Tolliver, Linda Webber and Family, excellent caregivers, Geraldine Daniels and Stephanie Cobb and Seniors at New Salem Manor, where she resided. The family of Mary Louise Tate sincerely appreciates your thoughtfulness and prayers during their time of sorrow. A special thank you is extended to the team and staff at Grace Hospice and special caregivers, Geraldine Daniels and Stephanie Cobb. All kind and thoughtful expressions of sympathy are gratefully acknowledged.