Barbara Ann Pate

Barbara Ann Pate, 81, passed away peacefully on May 25, 2025, in Jacksonville, Florida.

Born in Bessemer, Alabama on January 18, 1944. Barbara moved to Chicago as a young girl, where she would go on to build a life and raise her beloved son, Louis. She loved the vibrant pace of city life and often spoke fondly of her many rides on the L train.

Later in life, Barbara relocated to Florida’s Panhandle, where she learned to drive and discovered a deep appreciation for the white sands and calming waters of the Gulf Coast. She eventually settled in Panama City, Florida, and lived there for many years before moving to Jacksonville to be closer to her granddaughter, Jennifer, during the last years of her life.

Barbara had a joyful and adventurous spirit. She loved shopping, solving crossword puzzles, rollerskating, bowling, and going to the movies. But more than anything, her greatest happiness came from being a devoted mother and grandmother. Raising her son and two grandchildren was the absolute joy of her life.

Barbara is preceded in death by her son, Gerald Louis Pate and her parents, Robert and Margaret Laird. She is survived by her grandchildren, Jennifer Pate (Mustafa Kay) and Sean (Laurel), and their three children Skyler, Draven, and Matthew.

Barbara will be deeply missed by those who knew and loved her. Her kindness, warmth, and unwavering love for her family will be remembered forever.