William Albert Pate, III
January 16, 1946 - January 25, 2022
William “The Mule” A. Pate, III, age 76 of Destin, Florida passed away peacefully surrounded by his family on Tuesday, January 25, 2022. Mr. Pate began his career with L&N Railroad, retiring from CSX Transportation as a Carman. In his spare time, he loved playing the Bass in Bluegrass music, often traveling to Bluegrass festivals. He was an avid “collector” of anything vintage, especially vintage automobiles. Mr. Pate was the self-proclaimed mayor of the Kel Wen neighborhood. A devoted husband, loving father, and doting grandfather, Mr. Pate loved nothing more than his family. Mr. Pate is preceded in death by his parents, William A. Pate, Jr. & Mary Ann Lewis Pate; his sister, Rita Pate; and his son, Brad Pate. He is survived by his loving wife, Rhonda Payne Pate; his children, Tony (Glynna) Pate, Mica (Carey) Espey, and Angie (Kenneth) Holzheimer; grandchildren, Zachary (Haley) Pate, Liberty (Nick) Ellis, Michael Espey, Harper Espey, Paige Espey, Jonah (Faith) Holzheimer, and Ariel (Connor) Broadley; and great-grandchildren, Emma Grace and Ethan; and a special family dog, Chance. The funeral to celebrate the life of William Pate, III will be held on Friday, January 28, 2022 at 11:30 AM at Tom M. Wages Snellville Chapel. Burial will follow at Snellville Historical Cemetery, Snellville, GA. The family will receive friends prior to the service from 9:30 AM until 11:30 AM at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks that you consider a donation in Mr. Pate’s name to the American Cancer Society. Due to COVID-19 regulations, our staff is committed to taking care of our guests and families that we serve. We also ask all guests and family members attending visitations and services to please continue social distancing and if desired to bring and wear a mask. Condolences may be sent or viewed at www.wagesfuneralhome.com. Tom M. Wages Funeral Service, A Family Company, 3705 Highway 78 West, Snellville, GA 30039 (770-979-3200) has been entrusted with the arrangements.
William “The Mule” A. Pate, III, age 76 of Destin, Florida passed away peacefully surrounded by his family on Tuesday, January 25, 2022. Mr. Pate began his career with L&N Railroad, retiring from CSX Transportation as a Carman.... View Obituary & Service Information