James W. "Jack" Tate Jr.

Mr. James W. "Jack" Tate, Jr., age 89, of LaGrange, passed away on Janaury 1, 2026. Jack was born on December 8, 1936 in Little Rock, Arkansas to the late James Wesley Tate, Sr. and Mable Zoe Lenz Tate. He received a Bachelor's Degree in Mechanical Engineering from Georgia Tech. He worked for many years at McDonald Douglas Aircraft in St. Louis and was the retired owner of Polk Sheet Metal Works. He was a faithful member of the Kiwanis Club of LaGrange since 1982 and served as a Past President.

Survivors include his wife of over 66 years, Sandra Anita Polk Tate; son, Patrick Tate (Kimberly); daughter, Julie Owen (Scott); grandchildren, Lauren Carr (Edward), Dalton Tate, Daniel Owen (Ashley) and McKenzie Owen; great-grandchildren, Henry Carr, John Carr, Karlie Martin, Calie Martin, Colten Owen, Cooper Owen, Cade Whitlock and Benee Owen; extended family and friends.

Jack loved the outdoors and was an avid hunter and fisherman. He also loved his church, Ayres Memorial Church, and was an active member. Music, whether in church, the radio or kids school concerts, was very important to him. He taught himself to play the banjo many years ago and would "pick and grin" as he said.

In 1981 Jack left the aerospace industry and moved his family from St. Louis, MO to LaGrange. He was the proud owner of Polk Sheet Metal Works and was a very successful businessman. When he retired, he and Sandra were able to travel around the country to visit family and friends as well as make new adventures of their own. They also enjoyed taking cruises with a large group of friends.

Jack will be dearly missed by his family and many close friends. Till we see you again you will be in our hearts.

In lieu of flowers please make donations to the Alzheimer's Foundation.

Funeral services will be held on Sunday, January 4, 2026 at 3:00 pm at the Higgins Funeral Home at Hunter Allen Myhand Chapel with Pastor Wayne Hester officiating. Interment will follow at Shadowlawn Cemetery. Family will receive friends on Sunday at the funeral home from 2:00-3:00 pm.

Higgins Funeral Home at Hunter Allen Myhand, 706-884-5626.