Thomas "Norris" Tate, Sr., age 81, of Rutherfordton, passed away, Friday, November 10, 2023 at Rutherford Regional Medical Center.

Norris was born, Sunday, March 22, 1942 in Rutherford County to the late Gilford Young Tate and Eliza Queen Tate. He worked in the dye and bleaching room at Stonecutter Mill for most of his life until retirement. Norris enjoyed fishing, going to flea markets and auctions and especially loved celebrating special times with his family. He was of the Baptist Faith.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Doris Adams Tate; grandson, Caleb Lee Richards and sisters, Betty Jo Wilson, Alice Smith and Lucille Lane.

Those left to treasure his memory include his children, Ann Tate Barnett of Henrietta, Jean Hudson (Richard) of Bostic, Tammy Tate of Rutherfordton and Thomas Norris Tate, Jr. (Susan) of Ellenboro; sister, Diane Tate of Ellenboro; grandchildren, Derek McCall, Kristie McCall, Zackery Pilgrim, Elizabeth Hudson, Shane Hudson, Tony Hudson, Rose Marie Patterson, Ronald Eugene Richards, Jonathon Tate, Robert Tate and eleven great-grandchildren.

A private family gathering to honor Norris will be conducted. His urn will be buried at Floyd's Creek Baptist Church Cemetery next to his late wife.

Harrelson Funeral and Cremation Services has been entrusted with arrangements.

An online guest registry is available at www.harrelsonfuneralhome.com