Back to Obituaries R.S. Lewis & Sons Funeral Home | Memphis, TN

Emma Jean Tate

07/17/1954 - 10/08/2025

Obituary For Emma Jean Tate

Emma Jean Daughter Tate was born July 17, 1954 to Louise Daughter Sampson and Walter Bean at John Gaston Hospital in Memphis, TN.

Emma accepted Christ as her Lord & Savior at an early age. In 1991 she became a member of Greater Deliverance C.O.G.I.C., Elder AW Pope, Pastor. Where she served faithfully for 34 years. Because of her beautiful and welcoming smile and spirit she served as President of the Usher Board at her church and also served as a faithful Usher for the Tree of Life District.

Emma graduated from East High School in 1972. Emma earned her Associate of Science degree from Shelby State Community College in 1976. She was the supervisor at DHS Pre-Edit Unit for several years. After 41 years of continued service she retired from the State of Tennessee going on to receive her BA in Professional Psychology at the age of 67 from Christian Brothers University. Emma was a member of the Tennessee State Employee Association and she also worked with the Volunteer Support Committee until her death.

Emma departed this life on October 8, 2025 at St. Francis Hospital (Park Ave.) She was preceded in death by her parents, Louise Daughtery Sampson and Walter Bean, brother- George Turner, step-brother- Willie Sampson, sisters- Phyllis Newsom, Angela Sampson and Mary Sampson.

She leaves to cherish her memory: two sons Marcus Tate (Tonia), Jonathan Smith; one daughter Marcina Adams (Brian); eight grandchildren; Miya Tate, Lauren Tate, Jordan Adams, Marissa Tate, Kamron Adams, Matthew Tate, Asia Adams, and Kyrie Adams. 1 step sister- Avery Lee Sampson, 3 sisters- Viki Sampson, Marsha Buchanon (Don), Jamie Sampson. A host of aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. Best friend of 50+ years Margaret Letcher and a dear friend Charles Robinson.

Homegoing service Thursday October 16,2025 11:00a.m. held at Temple COGIC, 672 S. Lauderdale St., with burial to follow at Elmwood Cemetery


Condolences & Tributes

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I just met Emma two years ago. This past summer while at RA Assembly in Nashville, we as the Shelby County Chapter had a great time together. Emma had that smile and pleasantness about her that made the trip even more enjoyable. We gonna miss her, but God loved her more.

Lonnie Tomlin III

Forevermore Loved, Remember and Cherish...R.I.P my dear friend

Joe Hollingsworth

I am sending much love and many prayers to Emma's family and other loved ones! I met Emma four years ago when her dear friend and my cousin, Frances Wilkins, invited her to Bible Study Fellowship {BSF}. I was blessed to be her Discussion Group Leader in 2021 and again last year. She truly loved God and enjoyed studying His Word. That picture captures her lovely smile and radiant personality! Thanking God for allowing me to see her and enjoy that smile at BSF, the day before He called her home!

Cheryl Diane Carter

I was deeply saddened to hear about the passing of beloved Mrs. Emma Tate. My heart goes out to the loved ones during this incredibly difficult time.

I had the privilege of working with Mrs. Emma, and her warm, caring, and gentle spirit touched my life in profound ways. She had an extraordinary gift for knowing when someone was struggling, and her words of encouragement were always a source of comfort and strength.

Emma's kindness, compassion, and generosity will be deeply missed, but her memory will live on in my heart.Emma's legacy of love and kindness continue to inspire us all.

Please accept my sincerest condolences. Rest in peace, dear Emma. May you be at peace in heaven. 🙏"

Eleanor Shotwell

Our staff will continue to keep your family in our prayers. We thank you for allowing us to serve your family.

R.S. Lewis & Sons Funeral Home | Memphis, TN

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