Everett W. ‘Skeeter” Tate, 77, of Mt. Vernon, formerly of Texico, passed away at 4:35 am on Friday, November 2, 2018, at Good Samaritan Hospital in Mt. Vernon.

He was born on May 31, 1941 in Texico to Harley and Geneva (Minor) Tate. In 1967, at Benton, he married Sharon Lee Payton and she preceded him in death on July 13, 2011.

Mr. Tate attended Field Grade School and Mt. Vernon Township high school. He served in the United States Army, stationed in Korea.  He enjoyed music, playing guitar, especially with his children, and horse racing,

He is survived by three sons, Michael Wayne Tate and wife Lisa of Beckemeyer, Illinois,  Robert Allen Tate of Woodlawn and Randy Wayne Tate of Colorado; one daughter, Michelle Lee Catron and husband Larry of Benton; three grandchildren, Christopher Michael Atwood of Christopher, Illinois, Samantha Leeann Tate of Effingham, and Roman Wayne Tate of Woodlawn;  one brother, Donald “Leck” Tate of Decatur; and one sister, Carol Sue Campbell of Decatur.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his wife.

In accordance with his wishes, cremation rites have been accorded and a memorial service for Mr. Tate will be held at 7:00 p.m. Thursday, November 8, 2018, at Panther Fork Missionary Baptist Church, with Derrick Cariel officiating.  Visitation will be held Thursday, from 5:00 p.m. until the hour of service, at the church.  Memorial gifts may be made to the American Cancer Society, and will be received at the service, or by mail to the Osborn Funeral Home, P.O. Box 130, Dix, Illinois 62830.  Online condolences may be made at www.osbornfuneral.com, or on the funeral home’s Facebook page.