Virginia Pernell Gideons Pate, 88, of Willard passed from this earthly life to her eternal rest on Thursday, February 23, 2023.

She was born on May 22, 1934 in Pender County, NC to the late Eunice Gideons.  Mrs. Pate was also preceded in death by her best friend and husband of 64 years, Cecil Pate; her son, Kerry Pate and sisters, Penny Brinson and Betsy Watson.

Surviving to cherish her memory is her devoted son, George Henry Pate and wife, Marty of Orange Park, Florida; grandsons, Derryck Zimmerman and Joshua Zimmerman from Orange Park, Florida; sister, Cora Mae Foy of Richlands; brothers, Greg McNeil of Willard and Thomas McNeil of Wallace; numerous extended family and friends that loved Virginia dearly.

Virginia was a devoted wife and loving mother, grandmother and sister. She found great joy in the simplest of things, but her greatest joy was family.  As a true southern lady, Virginia was a diligent homemaker and great cook who filled her home with love and welcomed all who entered.     She enjoyed cross-stitching when her eyesight allowed her to and her Koi Pond. Virginia loved flowers, which one could tell by her beautiful yard. Virginia will surely be missed but treasured memories will remain in the hearts of those who knew and loved her.

Graveside service and burial will be held at 11:00am Monday, February 27, 2023 at Riverview Memorial Park, Watha, NC with Pastor Paul Rose officiating.

In lieu of flowers the family request that memorial donations be sent to Amediasys Hospice, 1729 South Port Supply, Suite A, Bolivia, NC  28422.

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Quinn-McGowen Funeral Home of Wallace, NC