This is the sentiment that anyone who knew Chad Tate echoes... he was larger than life. In heart, actions, words, humor, spirit, and commitment - he was larger than life. These three words defined how Chad lived, and how he will be remembered. What made Chad larger than life? It was his ability to command a room, to never meet a stranger, to take a party up a notch, and to always exude good energy. These are all qualities of Chad Tate, a son, husband, coach, friend, professional, and Kentuckian for life. 

Chad made you feel loved, protected, and accepted. Be it his family, friends, students, customers, or acquaintances - the feedback was the same... a magnetic personality with laughter that filled the room. A friend in Chad was a friend forever. 

 

At his visitation services, approximately 2,000 people paid their respects in a crowded church, which is a testament to Chad Tate's legacy. From the strong bonds Chad laid foundation to at Madison Southern High School, to the diverse group of friends he cultivated at Berea College, to the budding basketball players he coached at Madison Southern, myriad of friends, family, church patrons, and members of the community kept pouring in to say goodbye to this hypnotic personality that we all truly loved. 

 

Chad will be missed dearly by the thousands whose lives he touched. But Chad will not be forgotten. A loyal group of Chad’s friends has collaborated with Berea College, Chad's alma mater, to honor him and his legacy by establishing The Chad Tate Larger than Life Endowed Fund. This fund will support the mission of Berea College to fulfill the No-Tuition Promise made to every admitted student since 1892. The Chad Tate Larger than Life Fund will stand as an enduring legacy to the success, loyalty, and love that Chad nurtured and shared with all those fortunate enough to call him family, colleague, or friend. 

 

Chad Tate was born on November 12, 1966, to Kenneth and Danella Sasser Tate, and was married to Mary Carole Thomas Tate. Chad was a Richmond, KY native and a 1990 graduate of Berea College earning his bachelor's degree in Business Administration. Chad played basketball and baseball at Berea College where he formed lifelong bonds and friendships with fellow teammates. He took his love of sports and coached the Madison Central Lady Indians for years. He also coached numerous teams and sports over the years. Chad became an insurance agent and was the owner of Chad Tate Shelter Insurance agency. 

 

Chad was committed to family, church, community, and friends. He served his church and was able to give back to the community he loved through his agency. Chad was strongly rooted in the Richmond and Berea communities and always stepped up when asked to sponsor local teams.