Larcenia (Williams) Tate

Larcenia “Lollipop” (Williams) Tate was born on October 13, 1945, in Meadville, Pennsylvania, to the late Richard and Anna Williams. At a young age, she relocated to Erie, Pennsylvania, where she was raised and later graduated from Academy High School.  She met and married John M. Tate Sr. (Plook) on May 8, 1977 with whom she built a strong foundation and loving family.

Larcenia professed her love for her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, and was baptized as a young adult. She became a devoted member of Community Missionary Baptist Church under the leadership of the late Reverend Herlis Murphy, where her faith continued to guide her throughout her life.

For 35 years, Larcenia dedicated her career to early childhood education as a preschool teacher at St. Benedict Child Care Development Center. She was adored by staff, parents, and students for decades.  Through her work, she nurtured and inspired countless Head Start students, instilling in them strong values, confidence, and a foundation for lifelong learning.

Larcenia was the beloved matriarch of the Williams family. Known for her strength, resilience, and vibrant spirit, she never met a stranger and was deeply loved by all who knew her. She found joy in family gatherings, playing bingo, traveling, visiting the casino, and dancing. Larcenia had a radiant presence and lit up every room she entered.  She was truly the life of the party.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, John M. Tate Sr.; her daughter, Pamela Denise Williams; her brother, Herman Williams; and her sisters, Geraldine Williams, Richlene Williams, Dorothy Williams, Joan Williams, Emily Williams, and Mary Jane Williams.

She leaves to cherish her memory her loving children: Benjamin Tate (Alicia), John M. Tate Jr., Eric Tate (LeAnn), all of Erie, Pennsylvania, and Darlene Tate-Jones (John) of Erie, Pennsylvania; 22 grandchildren and 33 great-grandchildren.  She is also survived by her sister, Betty Ruth Bijou of Chicago, Illinois; sisters-in-law Beverly Williams of Meadville, Pennsylvania, Bertha Beard of Erie, Pennsylvania, Inez Whitmire (David) of Bowie, Maryland, Arabell Smith of Temple Hills, Maryland, and Christine Gavin of New York, New York.

Larcenia also leaves her cherished goddaughter, Latasha Williams; her adopted granddaughter, Janyah Carson; special nieces Reatha Mae Tate, Betty Jean Davis, Stacy Williams, and Melissa Williams; special nephews Robert Tate, Terry, Quincy, and Gary Williams; along with a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family members, and dear friends who loved her deeply.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to Janyah Carson for her unwavering love, dedication, and compassionate care, faithfully supporting Larcenia through her final days.

Relatives and friends are invited to Second Baptist Church 757 East 26th Street Erie, Pennsylvania 16504 on Saturday, April 4, 2026, from 10:00 AM to the time of service at 12:00 PM. Burial will follow at Erie Cemetery. Arrangements have been entrusted to Davis-Garr Cremation and Funeral Services, Inc. 459 East 12th Street Erie, Pennsylvania 16503. Online condolences may be sent to Davisgarrfuneralhome.com.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Larcenia (Williams) Tate, please visit our floral store.