Clarence Henry Tate, Jr., affectionately known as CJ, was born on June 7, 2001, to Clarence Henry Tate, Sr. and Geneva Tate. At the age of eleven, he confessed Christ and united with Union Chapel Missionary Baptist Church, where he began his spiritual journey and developed a personal faith in the Lord.

CJ was a proud graduate of New Hope High School, Class of 2019. Following graduation, he answered the call to serve his country as a member of the Army National Guard, demonstrating both courage and dedication. He was also a committed employee of Lowe’s, where he worked faithfully and was known for his strong work ethic.

CJ was preceded in death by his beloved grandparents, Joe Willie Tate, Maggie Tate, Jessie Mae Blair, and Hattie Shelton, whose memories remained dear to him.

On February 17, 2026, the Lord called CJ home. Though his time on earth was brief, his presence left a lasting impact on everyone who knew and loved him.

He leaves to cherish his precious memories his loving parents, Geneva Tate of Columbus, Mississippi, and Clarence Tate, Sr. of Brooksville, Mississippi; his brother, Judias Deshaun Neal, Jr. of Columbia, South Carolina; his sisters, Hailey Tate of Columbus, Mississippi, Ashley Stepp of Carrollton, Alabama, and Tierra McCoy of Macon, Mississippi; along with a host of devoted uncles, aunts, nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends who will forever hold him close in their hearts.

Though he is no longer with us in body, CJ’s love, spirit, and memory will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew him.