Vicky R Pate

Vicky Rebecca Pate (Thomas)

October 6, 1938 – February 14, 2026

Vicky Rebecca Pate was born on October 6, 1938, in Jacksonville, Florida, to Herbert Craft Thomas, Sr. and Vera Olive (Richardson) Thomas. She grew up on Olevia Street in Jacksonville and later in the Mandarin area on Mandarin Terrace Road, places that shaped the strong, vibrant spirit she carried throughout her life.

In 1956, as a freshman at Stetson University in DeLand, Florida, Vicky met the love of her life, William (Bill). They were married on July 4, 1957, beginning a devoted partnership that would span 60 beautiful years, until Bill's passing. Together they built a life grounded in love, adventure, and unwavering commitment.

After their marriage, Vicky and Bill moved to Miami to continue their education. Vicky earned her Bachelor's Degree in Physical Education from the University of Miami, a field that reflected her lifelong passion for movement, health, and sports. While pursuing their degrees, Vicky and Bill welcomed the beginnings of their family life. Bill's Air Force service took them to Texas and internationally to Germany. After Germany, the Air Force stationed their young family at Eglin Air Force Base, returning them to Florida. In 1971, they settled in DeLand, where they lived for nearly 19 years, creating cherished memories and lifelong friendships.

While raising their three sons, Vicky wholeheartedly pursued her passions. A dedicated athlete, she embraced an active lifestyle that included strength training with Nautilus equipment, kayaking, hiking, skiing, and, most especially, tennis. She became a certified Ski Patroller in New Mexico, demonstrating her adventurous spirit and determination. But it was tennis that truly captured her heart.

Vicky played tennis well into her 80s and inspired countless others through her coaching. During the 1980s, she served as the tennis coach at Stetson University, leading both the women's and men's teams with enthusiasm and dedication. Later, in the late 1990s, she coached at Centenary College in Shreveport, Louisiana. After eventually returning to DeLand, she remained an active and beloved presence at the local tennis club, continuing to share her passion for the sport and her joy for life.

Throughout their years together, Vicky and Bill traveled extensively for both work and pleasure. Their adventures took them across Europe, throughout the United States, to Central and South America, and as far as South Korea, Hong Kong, and China. They embraced the world with curiosity and gratitude, truly living life to its fullest.

Vicky was preceded in death by her parents, Herbert and Vera; her brother, Craft; and her beloved husband, Bill. She leaves behind a loving family: her three sons and their wives, Steve (Joelle), Lynn (Gina), and Ward (Franca); five grandchildren, Will (Katy), Kaitlynn (Jordan), Jake, Justin, and Trey; and one precious great-grandchild, Eloise.

Vicky will be remembered for her strength, energy, and competitive spirit. Her life was one of devotion, adventure, and resilience; a legacy that will continue to inspire all who knew her.