Bessie Lou Tate
February 14, 1934 – September 26, 2016
BESSIE LOU TATE was born February 14, 1934 on Valentine Day in San Diego, California. She was the seventh of eight children born to the late Jessie and Matris Morris. Bessie accepted Christ at a young age and was baptized at the Bethel Baptist Church under the leadership of the late Dr. Charles H. Hampton. She received her primary education through the San Diego Unified School District at Stockton Elementary, Memorial Jr. High and graduated from San Diego High. She continued her education by attending San Diego City College, where she received her Cosmology License. In 1957, Bessie united in Holy Matrimony with Harold Tate of the United States Navy. Bessie was known for being a people person and a fun-loving party person. Her expertise in deserts, especially her banana pudding, was something to die for. Her sharp dressing was adorned by many. Bessie was a very fashionable dresser; always looked amazing and stunning from head-to-toe. Bessie enjoyed spending quality time with her family and friends. If you knew Bessie, you would know that she absolutely loved her children and spoiled them rotten. Bessie will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved her. Early Monday morning on September 26, 2016 at approximately 5:00 A.M., Bessie Lou Tate who was blessed with eight–two years of God’s Grace, earned her wings and went home to be with the Lord. She was preceded in death by both of her parents; her brothers, Posey Morris, Jessie Morris Jr., Chester Morris and Howard Morris and her grandson, Gerald Bradswell Jr. She is survived by her loving children, Lanard Morris, Kevin Tate Sr., Gerald Lavone Bradswell, Sr., Shamone Patterson and Roshawn Tate; her sisters, Mary Jane McKee (Paul), Augusta Sawyer and Octavia Ellis (Jack); fifteen grandchildren; six great-grandchildren and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives and many friends. Bessie was loved by so many and she will be deeply missed! Services were held Monday, October 5, 2016 at Anderson-Ragsdale Mortuary, Memory Chapel.
