Pate – Stephen Crane Pate, age 73, of Jacksonville, Florida passed away on December 17, 2023, at Lakeside Center for Rehabilitation and Healing.  Stephen was born in Durham, North Carolina on September 22, 1950, to the late William B. Pate and Dorothy Woods.  Stephen was raised in North Carolina until his teenage years, when his family relocated to Neptune Beach, Florida. He has enjoyed the majority of his adult life at Neptune Beach and recently moved to Jacksonville in 2015.  Stephen graduated from Fletcher High School in 1968, attended Junior College for a few years until being drafted in the United States Army where he proudly served our country during the Vietnam War. Following his honorable discharge from the military, Stephen attended the University of Florida and earned his bachelor's degree in communications and Broadcasting. He enjoyed a long successful career as a Salesman for Southern Bell and also a Roofing Company.  Stephen was an avid Gators fan and season ticket holder for the University of Florida.  He enjoyed watching all their football and basketball games. After retirement, Stephen enjoyed being a Sports Broadcaster for the Senators, Fletcher High School football games.Stephen also enjoyed surfing in his younger years and attending North Jacksonville Baptist Church.  Stephen was greatly loved by many and will be deeply missed. Stephen was preceded in death by his parents.

Stephen is survived by his stepfather, Augustus Lanier of Jacksonville, FL; brother, Michael (Stephanie) Lanier of Jacksonville, FL; sister, Shelia (Tom) Grossholz of Callahan, FL; three nieces, Lisa (Joel Hudson) Geraci, Amanda (Adam) Albritton, and Katie Clere; along with many extended family members and friends.

A Graveside Celebration of Stephen's Life will be held on Wednesday, January 10, 2024, at 2:30 pm at Jacksonville National Cemetery with Pastor Chris Coram officiating where military honors will be rendered.The arrangements are under the care and direction of Nassau Funeral Home, 541720 US-1, Callahan, Florida 32011. 904-879-1770. Visit www.nassaufh.com to sign the family's guest book.