TATE

Wardell Tate, 78, departed this life Wednesday, Oct. 23, 2013, in Covington.

A resident of Franklinton, he was born on April 10, 1935. He worked for the Washington Parish School Board as a bus driver for 31 years, and continued to serve as a sub until his health failed him. He united with New Jerusalem Missionary Baptist Church at the age of 9, and served there as a custodian.

He and his wife, Audrey Bickham Tate, were married July 5, 1956, and were blessed with a daughter, Lisa Briggs, and a son, Raymond (Carissa) Tate, all of whom survive. He is also survived by 12 grandchildren; one brother, Winzlo (Carnell) Tate; one sister, Jonell (Bernard) Magee; and a host of nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his father and mother, Artis and Juanita Tate; one sister, Jeanette (Tate) Hart; one grandson, LaJames Briggs; and two granddaughters, Lakiesha Briggs and Takiesha Briggs.

Visitation will be held Saturday, Oct. 26, at Cook-Richmond Funeral Home in Franklinton from 4-6 p.m., followed by a family hour from 6-7 p.m. The funeral service will be held at 2 p.m. on Sunday at Jerusalem Baptist Church, with the Rev. Johnny E. Causey officiating. Interment will follow in Moriah Cemetery.