Jane E. Tate's Obituary
Jane E. Tate, 91, of Seaford, Delaware, passed away peacefully surrounded by her loving family on January 11, 2026 in her daughter’s home. She was born on December 16, 1934, in Bethel, Delaware, to Marshall “Doc” Carpenter and Sadie (Bailey) Carpenter. At the age of three, Jane moved to Seaford, where she attended school and later married her high school sweetheart, Norman L. Tate.
Jane devoted her life to caring for others. She worked as a medical assistant and was deeply involved in her community and church. Jane served as Vice President and later President of the Seaford Fire Department Ladies Auxiliary. She was a dinner coordinator at St. John’s Church, a Sunday school teacher, and a Girl Scout leader. Jane's commitment to service touched countless lives.
In her quieter moments, Jane found joy in the simple pleasures. She enjoyed bowling, reading James Patterson novels, and spending time with friends in her bridge club. All of those activities brought her happiness and companionship throughout her life.
Above all else, Jane loved her family. Her children, Donna Tate-Steinbiss (Karl), Patricia Harris (Garry), and Chad Tate (Judy), benefited greatly from her example. Her practical wisdom, patience, and kind spirit taught them to recognize and appreciate the value of everyday life. Jane's unwavering faith in Christ gave her confidence in her eternal future with Him, and there is great rejoicing in heaven as she has been welcomed home.
Jane’s great joy in her family expanded to include her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Jane is survived by six grandchildren, Josh Harris, Jamie Harris, Jon Harris, Clay Amidon (Laura), Courtney Tate, and Jenna (Tate) Baynum (Cameron), and seven great-grandchildren, Ryan Amidon, Ava Amidon, Trent Amidon, Noble Harris, Nolan Harris, Toryn Harris, and Presley Shockley.
Jane was predeceased by her parents, Marshall “Doc” and Sadie Carpenter, and her beloved husband, Norman L. Tate.
Though she battled many health challenges over the last 30 years of her life, Jane's perseverance was a testament to her deep faith in God and a source of inspiration to all who knew her.
A memorial service will be held on Saturday, January 24, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Watson-Yates Funeral Home, 609 E. King Street, Seaford, Delaware. The service will be officiated by Reverend Joshua Berry. A reception and celebration of life will follow at the Seaford Fire Hall, 302 E. King St. Seaford, DE 19973. A private graveside burial will take place at Odd Fellows Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Seaford Ladies Auxiliary. Kindly make checks payable to Seaford Fire Department Ladies Auxiliary, 302 E. King Street, Seaford, DE 19973.
Please sign Jane's Tribute wall at this site.
FLORIST NOTE: PLEASE HAVE ALL FLOWERS DELIVERED ON FRIDAY, JANUARY 23, 2026, BY 3PM TO OUR SEAFORD LOCATION.
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