Phillip Handley Pate

Funeral services for Phillip Handley Pate, 85, of Lufkin will be held Thursday, December 19, 2024 at 11:00 a.m. at Christ Congregational Church with The Reverend Randall K. Green and M. Todd Stracener officiating. Interment will follow in Pine Grove Cemetery in the Barnum Community of Polk County, Texas.

Phillip passed away peacefully on Saturday, December 14, 2024. His final days in this life were spent happily surrounded by his family and friends. Born on February 16, 1939, in Camden, Texas, to Louise Handley Pate and Clifford Phillip Pate, Phillip lived a life of faith, service, and devotion to his loved ones.

Phillip graduated from Chester High School in 1957 and was a proud member of the Texas A&M Corps of Cadets. He later earned his degree as a forester from Stephen F. Austin State University in 1962, where he formed lifelong friendships with his Delta Sigma Phi fraternity brothers.

A man deeply connected to his roots, Phillip thoroughly enjoyed his years working cattle and embracing the country life in Barnum, Texas, where he raised his family and made his home. He served his community as a school board member, was an active member of his church, and answered a higher calling as a lay minister after his retirement. His unwavering faith was a cornerstone of his life and a source of strength through every challenge.

Phillip will be remembered as a man of integrity, humility, and deep faith. His dedication to his family, friends, and community touched countless lives. He persevered with grace and strength to the very end, leaving behind an enduring legacy of faith and love.

Phillip is survived by his beloved wife of 62 years, Emerchel Collins Pate of Lufkin; daughters, Laura Pate Whitworth and husband Johnny of Spring, Amy Pate Moss and husband Craig of Cypress; and son, Thomas Collins Pate and wife Stephanie Felts Pate of Baytown.

Phillip’s legacy lives on in his grandchildren, Holly Whitworth Todd, Joshua Whitworth, Sam Whitworth, Mary Katherine Whitworth Medlin and husband Price, Michael Moss and wife Alexandra, and David Moss; as well as his great-grandchildren, Anna Claire Todd, Jansen Todd, John Todd, Macy Whitworth, and William Medlin. They were his pride and joy.

He is also survived by his sisters, Jenny Buller of Cypress, Mary Pate of Barnes, and Cathy David of Barnes; along with a host of nieces and nephews.

Phillip was preceded in death by his brother, John Thomas Pate; brothers-in-law, Murry Buller and Doug David; and his parents, Louise Handley Pate and Clifford Phillip Pate.

Pallbearers will be Josh Whitworth, Sam Whitworth, Price Medlin, Michael Moss, David Moss, Jansen Todd, and John Todd.

Memorial contributions may be made to The Joseph House, P.O. Box 150554, Lufkin, Texas 75915.

The family will welcome friends and loved ones from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. Wednesday evening at Carroway Funeral Home.

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

Carroway Funeral Home, Lufkin, directors.