Emerchel Ann Pate

Emerchel Ann Collins Pate, 83, of Cypress, Texas, passed away on August 12, 2026. A beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend, she leaves behind a legacy of love that will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.

Emerchel was born in Camp Ruby, Texas, on February 13, 1943, the youngest of five children born to Virgil A. Collins and Rillia Leanna Moore Collins. She grew up in Camden, Texas, where she made many cherished memories and lifelong friendships. She attended school in Camden and graduated from Chester High School, remaining close to many of her school friends throughout her life.

A talented pianist, Emerchel served for many years as the pianist at Cade Memorial Methodist Church in Chester. She knew the words to nearly every church hymn and sang each one from her heart. A professed Christian, she carried her faith quietly but lived it loudly in the way she loved others as Christ loved her.

On May 26, 1962, Emerchel married her high school sweetheart, Phillip Pate, in Camden, Texas. Together, they shared a rare and beautiful love that served as an example to those around them. They made their home in Barnum, Texas, where they raised their children. Emerchel devoted herself to her family and home, creating a place filled with love and warmth.

Later, Emerchel began a career as a receptionist at Temple-Inland. She was known for her outgoing personality, beautiful smile, and gift for forming lasting relationships. She also took great joy in her Southern cooking, home decorating, and the latest fashions.

In their later years, Emerchel and Phillip made their home in Lufkin, Texas, where they continued to make wonderful memories and dear friends. Emerchel was a member of Christ Congregational Church in Lufkin. Following Phillip's passing, she moved to Spring, Texas, and became a resident of Avanti Senior Living at Augusta Pines. Phillip's passing left a heartbreak that never fully mended, a testament to the depth of the love they shared.

At the time of her passing, Emerchel resided in Cypress, Texas, under the loving care of Lynne Reimonenq with North Houston Healthcare Services. The family extends its deepest gratitude to Lynne, Polly, and Ebie, whose care was marked by dignity, compassion, and a Christ-like love. Their kindness will never be forgotten.

Emerchel was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Phillip Pate; her parents, Virgil and Rillia Collins; her brothers, J.B. Collins and his wife, Gwen; R.C. Collins and his wife, Rose; and Cotton Collins and his wife, Billie; and her sister, Pearlene Collins Adams and her husband, R.D. Adams.

She is survived by her children, Laura Whitworth and husband Johnny of Spring, Amy Moss and husband Craig of Cypress, and Tom Pate and wife Stephanie of Baytown; her grandchildren, Holly Whitworth Todd, Josh Whitworth, Sam Whitworth, Mary Katherine Whitworth Medlin and husband Price, Michael Moss and wife Ale, and David Moss; and her great-grandchildren, Anna Claire Todd, Jansen Todd, John Todd, Macy Whitworth, William Medlin, and Whit Medlin. She is also survived by numerous nieces and nephews whom she loved dearly.

Emerchel's greatest legacy was the love she gave so freely. Her family will forever be grateful for the impact that love had on their lives. Her loving embrace brought comfort, peace, and a sense of home—a feeling that will be deeply missed.

Her life was a gift. Her love was her legacy. She will be lovingly remembered and forever cherished.

Funeral Services

Visitation: Sunday, August 16, 2026, 6:00–8:00 p.m.

Carroway Funeral Home

Funeral Service: Monday, August 17, 2026, 11:00 a.m.

Christ Congregational Church, Lufkin, Texas

Burial: Pine Grove Cemetery, Camden, Texas

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Purple and Gold Scholarship Foundation at Chester High School in honor of Emerchel. They may be mailed to Chester ISD-Scholarship Fund, C/O Superintendent-Cory Hines at 273 Yellowjacket Dr, Chester, TX 75936

Memories and condolences may be added at www.carrowayfuneralhome.com.

Carroway Funeral Home, Lufkin, directors.