Maggie Mae Tate, lovingly known as "Madea," was born on August 10, 1942, in Macon, Mississippi, to Eddie Lee McLeod and Magnolia Hopkins. A devoted mother, wife, grandmother, sister, and friend, Maggie was a cherished pillar of her community in Noxubee County, where she lived a lifetime filled with meaningful bonds and heartfelt care.

A woman of many passions, Maggie found joy tending to her flowers and caring for her beloved cats. Her home was always warm with the aromas of her delicious cooking, and she treasured every family gathering, nurturing her children with unwavering love through both childhood and adulthood.

Maggie's faith was the cornerstone of her life. She was a lifelong member of Drake Hill United Methodist Church, faithfully serving in numerous auxiliaries and exemplifying her dedication to Jesus Christ.

On December 13, 2025, Maggie entered her heavenly home at Baptist Memorial Hospital in Starkville, Mississippi. She was preceded in death by her husband, Joe Willie Tate, Sr.; her parents; her daughter, Marilyn Dinkins, and four brothers, Sylvester Williams, Sammy Williams, Robert Hopkins, and George Hopkins.

She leaves behind a loving legacy through her children: Josie Mae Carson of Indianapolis, IN, Joe Willie Tate, Jr. of Brooksville, MS, John Eddie Tate of Memphis, TN, Clarence Tate of Brooksville, MS, Janice Brown of Brooksville, MS, David (Adrienne) Tate of Columbus, MS, Carline (Darrell) Cothern of Indianapolis, IN, Lawrence (Tara) Tate of Columbus, MS and Steven L. Tate of Brooksville, MS. She is also survived by her siblings, Patricia (Eric) Lamb of Shuqualak, MS, Beauty (Joseph) Hunt of Macon, MS, Dollie M. Williams of Chicago, IL,  Mattie Hopkins of Macon, MS, Carrie Morant of New York, NY, Joe (Willie Mae) Hopkins, Lester (Ruby) Hopkins, Bobby (Linda) Hopkins all of Macon, MS, John E. Beck of Gary, IN, Chester Hopkins of Hattiesburg, MS, and Will Hopkins of Columbus, MS. Maggie was a beloved grandmother to 35 grandchildren, a great-grandmother to 50 great-grandchildren, and a cherished presence to numerous nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends.

Maggie Mae Tate's life was a testament to love, faith, and community. Her memory will forever be held dear in the hearts of all who knew her.