Charlotte Woods Pate

Charlotte Ellis Woods Pate passed away on October 31st, 2023, after 90 amazing years. She was born on May 31st, 1933, in Pelly, Texas, to her devoted parents, Rennie and Lou Ella Ellis. Charlotte shared her early years with her older brother, R. A. Ellis. She forever cherished the enduring bonds of family.

Charlotte's formative years were defined by an unwavering commitment to the core values she held dear. She was an exemplary student, graduating second in her class at Robert E Lee High School in Baytown. Charlotte was an active participant in her school's community and a proud member of the Lee Brigadiers Drum and Bugle Corps, where she was recognized with the Hazel Evans Award. Her leadership qualities again showed through, when she served as Texas State President of the Future Teachers of America.

In 1952, Charlotte married Guy E. Woods Jr. in Baytown, Texas. Together, they embarked on a life journey that led them to Deer Park, Texas. They were blessed with two children, Mike and Louann. Charlotte's role as a devoted wife and mother was complemented by her professional career which began as assistant to the publisher at the Baytown Sun. Later, at USI Corporation, she excelled for more than 25 years, eventually becoming the first female Supervisor of the Traffic Department. Charlotte and her family were an integral part of the Deer Park First Baptist Church community, where she taught 8th grade Sunday School for many years. After 35 years of marriage, Guy’s untimely passing occurred in 1988.

Charlotte's resilience and capacity for caring led her to a second great love, Robert Pate. They were wed in 1993 and together they shared the joys of retirement. Much of their time was spent traveling the world and relishing their golden years with the DPFBC “Silver Set” and Shell Retirees Club. After Robert’s passing in 2001, Charlotte remained active, volunteering tirelessly in the church library and showing support from the sidelines of grandkids’ events.

Above all, Charlotte cherished the time spent with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She was known for her annual Christmas Eve party, creating cherished memories for her family. Her generosity extended to ensuring that all four of her grandchildren had the opportunity to receive a college education without the burden of financial concerns.

Charlotte was preceded in death by her loving parents, Rennie and Louella Ellis, her beloved husbands, Guy E. Woods Jr. and Robert Pate, as well as in-laws Guy Sr. and Esther Woods. She leaves behind her brother, R.A. Ellis, and her two children, Mike (Cindy) Woods and Louann Barnett (Steve Rogers). She is also survived by her four adoring grandchildren, Michelle (Rob) Ayres, Amanda (Ben) Kopp, Sean Woods, and Katie Banister, and her six precious great-grandchildren, Jet Banister, Chris Ayres, Cami Kopp, Avett Banister, Deacon Kopp, and Stephen Ayres.

In her final years, Charlotte’s outgoing personality was suppressed by Alzheimer’s disease. Still, “Grandma” Charlotte will be remembered for her unwavering love, selfless dedication to her family, community involvement, and zest for life. She leaves behind a legacy of warmth, kindness, and generosity that will be cherished by all who had the privilege of knowing her. She is already missed and will forever be held close in our hearts.

Visitation will be held Wednesday, November 8, 2023 from 1:00PM to 2:00PM with a Celebration of Charlotte's life beginning at 2:00PM at Grand View Funeral Home, 8501 Spencer Highway, Pasadena, Texas 77505. Immediately following she will be laid to rest at Grand View Memorial Park.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.grandviewfunerals.com for the Pate family.