James Walter Tate

James Walter Tate was born February 25, 1943 in Houston, Texas to Mildred Pradia and James Tate Sr. His family relocated to Beaumont, Texas when he was five. He was the fifth of Mildred's seven children. James graduated from Hebert High School in 1961 as Magna Cum Laude and Salutatorian. He left Beaumont shortly after high school and settled in the Southern California area.

James earned a bachelor's degree in Accounting and a master's degree in Business Administration. He had a lucrative career and worked in the areas of aerospace, auditing, and education. In 2008, he retired from the Los Angeles County Office of Education.

James was the proud father of two daughters, Sybrena and Tracy. He enjoyed spending time with family and shared a close relationship with his daughters and their families. James had a great love for music and was known for his passion to sing. James inspired many by sharing his knowledge of African History and was an advocate for social justice and healthy living.

James married his sweetheart Gerri in 1993 and they shared a wonderful life together until his passing on April 8, 2020. He leaves to cherish his memories, a loving wife, Gerri; brother and wife, Marvin and Mary Anne; two sisters, Carol and Joyce; daughter and son-in-law, Sybrena and Kelvin; daughter and son-in-law Tracy & Bryant; two grandsons, Brojoni and Christian; two granddaughters, Ravyn and Alexis; 4 bonus grandchildren; 8 bonus great grandchildren; many other family and friends.