The Harriman Fire Department has announced the passing of former Fire Chief Jerry Tate, mourning the loss of a dedicated community leader.
Chief Tate dedicated many years of his life to serving the department and the citizens of Harriman. In a statement released by the department, colleagues expressed deep gratitude for his years of commitment and the lasting legacy he leaves behind.
Chief Tate is remembered for his extensive service and leadership within the Harriman Fire Department. Fellow firefighters and community members have extended their thoughts and prayers to the Tate family during this difficult time.
Honoring his decades of dedication, the department shared a final tribute: “Rest Easy, Chief. Your watch is over, but your legacy will never be forgotten.”
Jerry Wayne Tate, age 80, of Harriman, passed away on Thursday, August 20, 2026, at Parkwest Medical Center in Knoxville. He was born October 20, 1945, in Rockwood to the late Eugene and Pauline Tate.
Jerry was a member of Riverside Baptist Church. He proudly served his country in the United States Army during the Vietnam War, attaining the rank of E-5 Sergeant. During his military service, he was awarded the Vietnam Campaign Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, and National Defense Service Medal. Jerry also retired from the Harriman Fire Department. Above all he loved his family and treasured the time spent with those closest to him.
He was preceded in death by his loving wife of 52 years, Viola “Tootsie” Tate; parents, Eugene and Pauline Tate; sisters, Barbara Jean Jones and Sandra Nelson; and brother, Gary Tate.
Jerry is survived by his daughter, April Tate of Friendsville; sisters, Shirley Seely of Kevil, Kentucky and Ketta Smith of Harriman; brother-in-law, Keith Adkins and wife Tammy of Ten Mile; special nephew, Scott Jones & wife Angie of Harriman; special family friends, Crystal Neeley of Harriman, Erika Ambrose & Alicia Ambrose of Oliver Springs, Brooklyn Ambrose of Harriman; Danette, Candace & Wyatt Winkler of Mt. Juliet, Tennessee; along with extended family and friends who will miss him dearly.
The family will receive friends 4:00 – 6:00 pm, Monday, August 24, 2026 at Fraker Funeral Home with funeral service to follow at 6:00 pm, in the chapel with Bro. Steve Turner officiating. Interment will be held 1:00 pm, Tuesday, August 25, 2026 at Oak Grove Cemetery. Online register book can be signed at www.frakerfuneralhome.net. Fraker Funeral Home of Kingston is honored to serve the family of Jerry Wayne Tate.
