Ralph Byers Tate, 84

            Ralph Byers Tate, 84, a resident of Dayton, passed away on January 6, 2012 at his home.

            Mr. Tate was born on May 20, 1927 in Rockingham County and was the son of the late William N. and Mary Essie Simmers Tate.  He was a United States Army Veteran and a local farmer.  After his retirement from farming, he worked for the Town of Dayton. He attended People’s Baptist Church.

            On July 5, 1952 he married the former Verdie Dove who survives.

            Also surviving are two sons, Ralph B. Tate, Jr. of Clute, Texas, Frederick A. Tate and wife Kristi of Harrisonburg; a sister, Evelyn Keane of Harrisonburg; and two grandsons, Christopher A. Tate and Patrick R. Tate.

            Mr. Tate was preceded in death by two brothers, Ewell W. Tate and Carl M. Tate who died as an infant.

            Pastor Jay Hanger will conduct a memorial service on Sunday, January 8, 2012 at 2:30 p.m. at the McMullen Funeral Home Chapel. 

            Burial will be held privately at Rest Haven Memorial Gardens.

            There will be no formal visitation and the casket will be closed.

            Memorial contributions may be made to the People’s Baptist Church Television Ministry Fund, 3523 Spotswood Trail, Harrisonburg Virginia 22802.

            Online condolences may be made to the family at www.mcmullenfh.com.