Bobby Dale Tate

Bobby Dale Tate died peacefully at his home at Renaissance Marquis Assisted Living Facility on Thursday evening, January 8, 2026. Bobby was born on July 7, 1936. He was preceded in death by his parents, Grady C. Tate and Cleo Whisenant Tate; his brother, James Thomas (Tom) Tate; and a daughter, Sheila Theresa (Terri) Farrer. Bobby was also preceded in death by his beloved wife of 60 years, Evelyn Mae Tucker Tate, to whom he was married on August 7, 1963.

In his younger years, Bobby enjoyed playing basketball. He played for the Rome High Hilltoppers and later continued that interest playing recreationally at Maple Street Gym in Rome. Bobby was proud to serve his country in the U.S. Army Reserves until his honorable discharge in March 1963.

Following a few jobs after high school, he began his career at the General Electric Transformer Plant, starting with mail delivery and eventually advancing to Dispatcher. His primary responsibility was assigning jobs to workers in the plant. He retired after more than 40 years of dedicated service, receiving many service awards along the way.

A strong Christian faith was always nurtured in the Tate household. Bobby was a faithful, dedicated member of Friendship Baptist Church in Rome, where he enjoyed singing in the choir and participating in senior adult activities. Bobby and Evelyn enjoyed gospel singing, and they often traveled to attend many gospel concerts in person.

Bobby was an avid fan of Atlanta Braves baseball and Georgia Bulldogs football. He very much enjoyed these events with family, whether on the radio, television, or in person. At other times, he could be found diligently working on jigsaw puzzles or crossword puzzles.

After his retirement from GE, Bobby enjoyed volunteer duties for the Medicine Shoppe, including occasional medication delivery. He also took daily deposits to the bank, now First National Community Bank, where he was welcomed with a hot cup of coffee and a newspaper. Many thanks to the bank staff for making him feel welcome; it was often a highlight of his day.

Always a jokester, Bobby thoroughly enjoyed laughter and good times with family and friends. He used playful, lighthearted banter to initiate friendly bonds with others. Assigning nicknames to those placed in his life’s path became his calling card. His humor will be greatly missed.

He is survived by his son, Chris Tate (Susan) of Rome; two daughters, Dianne Campfield of Rome and Pam Gangemi (Al) of San Antonio, Texas; as well as grandchildren, nieces, and other extended family.

The family extends their gratitude to Graceful Touch Nurse Practitioners. Heartfelt thanks are also extended to the exceptional caregivers at Renaissance Marquis and The Harbor at Renaissance Marquis. The family is especially thankful to the staff at Amedisys Hospice, who took excellent care of Bobby in his final days, affording him a peaceful transition to his Heavenly Home.

Funeral services will be held on Sunday, January 18, 2026, at 3:30 p.m. at Friendship Baptist Church, 2293 Calhoun Road NE, Rome, with Rev. Justin Silver and Rev. Barry McCullough officiating. Private interment will follow at Friendship Baptist Church Cemetery. The family will receive friends at the church on Sunday, January 18, 2026, from 2:00 p.m. until the time of the service.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Friendship Baptist Church.

Good Shepherd Funeral Home, Rome, has charge of funeral arrangements.

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