Jeanne Tate–Whitley

Jeanne L. Tate-Whitley was born August 19, 1951 in Sandusky, Ohio to Charles and Rebecca Tate. She passed away unexpectedly at her home on January 2, 2025 at the age of 73.

Jeanne was a product of Cleveland Public Schools. She graduated from East High School in 1970 and later attended Cuyahoga Community College "Tri-C" and Cleveland State majoring in Criminal Law. She first employment was with Navy Finance then the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission EEOC. She briefly worked for the city of Cleveland as a Corrections Officer and then as a Secretary to the Commissioner of Building and Housing in Cleveland. Her final place of employment was with AmericorpVista (UMADAOP).

At a young age Jeanne made a decision for Christ. She was baptized in 1983 at Philemon Community Baptist Church in Cleveland, OH. She attended churches in the Greater Cleveland area settling on St. Agnes+Our Lady of Fatima.

In the early 70's she gave birth to her first sons Michael Tate and Samuel Tate. Later she joined in matrimony with Alvin Whitley and to their union was born another son "Ray Ray". Together they raised the three boys and Jeanne was loved and respected by many a dedicated wife and mother.

She was involved in her community as a member of the National Federation of the Blind, Cleveland Chapter (NFB), and a member of the Fun Club 24-7, as well as the Senior Club at St. Augusta Roman Catholic Church.

Jeanne enjoyed fishing and camping with her family, playing BINGO and eating at Red Lobster. She loved going to the casino with her friend of 40 years Evelyn Morison Eaddie. A diehard Pittsburgh Steelers fan, she loved to host watch parties at her home with friends and family. She was known for her beautiful voice and often danced around the house singing old school songs - her favorite of which was "Mr. Postman" by The Marvelettes. Jeanne liked to travel as well and often flew to Florida to visit her niece Tachara, with whom was very close.

Jeanne was like a ray of sunshine to all who knew her. Her door was always open and she always welcomed with open arms those who lived in the neighborhood. She was so beloved by her neighbors, that she was given the nickname "Momma Jeanne".

She was preceded in death by her parents; son Samuel "Nell" Tate; sister Corazette Tate; brothers Michael Tate, Richard Tate, Steven Tate and Leonard Tate.

She leaves to cherish her memory, sons Michael Tate and "Ray Ray" (Lakia) Whitley; sister Rita Stanton; brother Rocco (Norma) Stanton, a host of grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and extended family; as well as dozens of special neighbors and friends.

Jeanne will be greatly missed and remembered fondly by all whose life she touched.