Russel Otis Tate, age 80, of Iuka, passed away peacefully on January 16, 2026, at Twin Willows Nursing Home in Salem.  He was born on August 5, 1945, in Omega, Township to Otis and Vera (Wilkinson) Tate.

He shared many years of his life with his first wife, Joyce Walters, with whom they had two children, Mike and Terry.  Later, he was married to Betty Simpson who preceded him in death in 2014.

He leaves behind his two sons, Mike Tate and wife Tammy of Salem, and Terry Tate of Paris.  He is also survived by his two sisters, Leuna Pruett of McKenzie, Tennessee and Ronalyn Stevens and husband Carl of Arnold, Missouri.  Also surviving are two grandsons, Jacob and Nathaniel Tate of Indiana.

He was preceded in death by his parents and one brother, Ronald Tate from West Frankfurt, Illinois.

Russ owned and operated Tate’s Service Station in Iuka for many years.  He had a great sense of humor and will be sadly missed by all who knew him.

The family would like to give special thanks to Twin Willows and all the nurses that helped to take care of him.  God Bless you all!

Celebration of Life Services will be held on Saturday, January 24, 2026, from 11:00a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at the Grace Church of the Nazarene.  There will be a meal for family and friends immediately following the service at the church.  Private burial will take place at Phillips Cemetery in Omega.  Crouse Funeral Home in Salem is assisting the family with arrangements.  Online condolences and memories can be left at www.CrouseFH.com.