William Wallace Tate Ii

William Wallace Tate II or “Bill” to those who knew him, passed away at his home on January 02, 2025, and walked into the arms of Jesus. Bill was born on April 22, 1943, in Lenoir NC to the late Earl Henry Tate and Kathryn Hanes Tate. He is survived by; two sisters, Ginger Tate Compton and Patricia Tate Weaver, one nephew, four nieces, and several great nieces and nephews, a son, William Wallace Tate III “Billy,” and wife Angie, three grandchildren, Shaina, Jaymen and Riley and two great grandchildren, Everleigh and Dallas. He loved his family with all his heart and loved being a “Poppa” to his grandchildren and great grandchildren. Bill was saved and fully trusted in the Lord and is now in his heavenly home.

Bill was born a mechanical genius. He could build anything and make it work. He repaired and designed many projects throughout his childhood and lifetime. At the age of just 17, he built his first street rod while still in high school.

After graduating from Lenoir High School, Bill enlisted into the United States Air Force where he was an airplane mechanic and loaded and fueled B52 bombers while stationed in Guam. He later became an automotive mechanic and service manager before starting his own automotive repair shop, “Tate’s Auto Service” in Lenoir.

After retiring from over 20 years of owning his own business, he began restoring old cars. He loved sharing this hobby with his son and best friend, Billy, especially when restoring classic Volkswagens. Many of Bill’s car restorations have been featured in prominent magazines such as Hot Rod, Hot VWs Magazine and several online publications. He also won numerous awards at car shows and cruise-ins.

Bill will always be remembered by his family, friends and by his dedication to preserving Lenoir and Caldwell County history. His wealth of knowledge, research, and attention to detail was shown in his work through the Caldwell Historical Museum, photo restorations, archiving, maintaining several Facebook pages and YouTube channels, automotive restorations and in his photography. Bringing Lenoir’s history to life for the community was very important to him. Bill has left behind a legacy of excellence, inspiring others to follow in his footsteps. He will truly be missed by all who knew him.

Bill has requested a private ceremony, and his family will be honoring his wishes. If you would like to make donations in honor of Bill’s memory, Our Daily Bread Ministries, Harvest.Org, and Caldwell Historical Museum were all dear to him.

Evans Funeral Service is honored to serve the family of William “Bill” Wallace Tate II.