Patricia Lynne Tate, 74, passed away August 3, 2025, at her home in Poteau. She was born on September 23, 1950, in Ardmore, Oklahoma to the late Warren S. and Colleen Harrell. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband Zack N. Tate, father-in-law Zack E. Tate and mother-in-law Opal (Hicks) Tate and her grandparents Melvin and Lillie Harrell and John Earl Burton and Emma Lou (McGowan) Burton. She is survived by daughters Tara Lyn Tate and Patricia Ann Tate of Poteau, Oklahoma.
Patricia attended high school in Dickson, Oklahoma. After graduation, she attended Southeastern Oklahoma State University in Durant where she earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education and Teaching and later earned a Master of Education (MEd) from East Central University in Ada, Oklahoma. After college, she taught kindergarten, 1st grade, and 5th grade at Marietta Public Schools. She subsequently taught elementary and middle school in Del Valley, TX, McAlester, OK, Ada, OK, and Socorro, TX. The last 14 years of her career were spent at Pocola Public Schools, where she worked until her retirement in 2018.
Throughout her career, Patricia showed a dedication to continuous learning, serving as Chairperson of a district-wide Continuing Education Committee, Director of Placement for Reading and Math, and Title 1 Language Arts and Math instructor. She was named Elementary Teacher of the Year for Pocola Public Schools in 2010, and served as a statewide textbook consultant for several years. In 2010, she obtained her National Board Teacher Certification.
Along with her husband Zack, Patricia was active in community organizations such as Chamber of Commerce and Rotary Club, and sponsored many charity events and auctions such as Special Olympics, Booster Club, Youth livestock events, and youth athletics. She was a lifelong learner, reading enthusiast, and gifted singer and painter who always put her family before herself. In her 48-year teaching career, she enriched the lives of many children and colleagues, and her infectious laugh and optimistic outlook brought warmth and joy to those who knew her. Her smile and light will be missed forever.
Cremation arrangements are under the care of Holt Funeral Services in Poteau, Oklahoma. There will be no services as per the wishes of the deceased.
Online condolences can be made at www.holtfuneralandcremation.com
“Through Love, Serve One Another”
The Family of Patricia Tate has entrusted her arrangements to Holt Funeral and Cremation, 522 Dewey Ave, Poteau, Oklahoma 74953, (918) 721-0026. Poteau’s Only 100% Locally Owned and Family Operated Funeral Home – Our Family, Loving Your Family Through
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