Joe Ross Pate

ROCKY MOUNT – Joe Ross Pate, age 82, passed away on Sunday, August 23, 2026.  Born in Nash County, NC on October 14, 1943, he was the son of the late Charles Judson Pate, Sr. and Carrie Ross Pate.

Joe will be remembered as a true gentleman whose caring, loving, and compassionate nature was evident in the way he treated everyone around him.  Always willing to lend a helping hand, he was especially attentive to the safety and well-being of the people he loved.  Joe worked for many years with the Binswanger Glass Company before continuing his career with Cox Direct Marketing, from which he later retired.  In his free time, he enjoyed woodworking, tending to his flowers, and spending time shooting his rifles.  Above all, Joe treasured the 49 wonderful years he shared with his devoted companion, Kathy.  Together, they loved to travel and created many special memories exploring the open road in their RV.  Joe’s kindness, generosity, and genuine concern for others will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Joe is survived by his companion, Kathy Herring Parks; his brother, Charles J. Pate, Jr.; his brother-in-law, Larry Herring; his nieces and nephews, Richard C. Pate, Carrie D. Pate, Denise Bissette, Chris Herring, Amy Branch, Toby Melton, Jeffrey Madigan and David Madigan; his great-nieces and great-nephews, Angelo D’Amato, Antonio D’Amato, Andretti D’Amato, Jessie A. Pate, Charles J. Pate, III and Brittany Pate; and his faithful caregiver, Mary Leach.

A Graveside Service to celebrate Joe’s life will be held on Thursday, August 27, 2026, at 11:00 AM at Pineview Cemetery with Rev. Chris Herring officiating.  The family will receive friends and relatives on Wednesday, August 26, 2026, from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Wheeler & Woodlief Funeral Home.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in Joe’s memory to the North Carolina Stroke Association, 2000 W. 1st Street, Winston-Salem, NC  27104; or American Heart Association Eastern NC, 3131 RDU Center Drive, Suite 100, Morrisville, NC  27560; or American Cancer Society, PO Box 11796, Charlotte, NC  28220.

Arrangements entrusted to Wheeler & Woodlief Funeral Home and Cremation Services, 1130 N. Winstead Avenue, Rocky Mount, NC 27804.  You may share memories and condolences with the family by visiting www.wheelerwoodlief.com.