Rev. Douglas D. Tate

Rev. Douglas Driver Tate, Sr. age 84 of Bagley, went home to be with the Lord on Sunday November 19, 2017 at his home, with his family and friends surrounding him. He was born on September 16, 1933 in Bagley, AL, where he remained a lifelong resident. As a young boy, he grew up helping his dad on the family farm, and spending a lot of time at the Birmingham Farmer’s Market selling the produce they raised. In 1951 he graduated from Corner High School; and continued farming with his dad after graduation. In 1956 he met and married Peggie Ruth Davison, whose career was nursing. They were married for forty-four years. She was the love of his life and his sole partner. On March 16, 1965, his life made a drastic change, when he accepted Jesus Christ as his Savior, and was later called to preach. In preparation for his preaching ministry, he attended the Baptist Theological Seminary in New Orleans. He began his ministry as Pastor of Wyatt Baptist Church in Burnwell. He founded and built Burnwell Baptist Church (now Greater Vision Baptist Church). He also began a tent revival ministry, and traveled far and wide preaching God’s word. In 1974, God called him to build a new church. The church he founded and built was named Grace Baptist Church in Sumiton, AL. He also had long running and successful radio and television ministries. He was also Owner and Founder of Tate Contracting Co. “Brother Doug” was faithful, doing God’s work for 43 years. For any thanks he received, he always said “To God be the glory”. Funeral services will be Wednesday November 22, 2017 at 2:00 pm at Grace Baptist Church in Sumiton. Revs. Joel Carden, Jeff Oates, Andy Frazier, John Foles and Steve Knox will officiate. Burial will follow in New Horizon Memorial Gardens. Visitation is Tuesday night 6-8 pm at the church and Wednesday from1-2 pm at the church. He was preceded in death by his parents, William Roosevelt and Willie Mae Tate, Sr.; his wife of 44 years, Peggie Ruth Tate; his son, Douglas Driver Tate, Jr.; his grandson, Jason Linn Huguley and his brother, William R. “Bill” Tate. Survivors include his daughter, Carolyn Tate (Randy Huguley); daughter in law, Dana Tate Standridge (Robert); sister, Patricia Williamson; granddaughters, Jayna Dawkins (Jacobe), Katie Oates (Jeff) and Sarah Tate; great grandchildren, Ezekiel and Jasolyn Huguley, Ruthie, Noah and Jonah Dawkins and Caleb Oates; several nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives and a host of friends.

Rev. Douglas D. Tate

September 16, 1933 - November 19, 2017