Foster Butch Tate

Foster "Butch" Wayne Tate, 82, of Hazel Green, Alabama, passed away on June 17, 2025. He was born on March 15, 1943, in Madison County, Alabama, to the late James and Mary Ellen (Nix) Tate.

A lifelong resident of Madison County, Butch was known for his devotion to his family and community. As a young man, he stood his ground among his siblings and got into mischief at times. He loved the outdoors—whether it was baseball, deer hunting, but he especially loved cheering on local Hazel Green girls’ volleyball and softball teams.

Butch was a recreational ball coach. His daughter, Coco, now the volleyball coach at Hazel Green High School, was first coached by her father. Many of Coco’s friends were once coached by him, and now, their children continue the legacy playing under Coco’s guidance—a testament to his lasting impact on generations of local Madison County athletes.

He honorably served his country in the Army Reserve for six years and later worked for USBI until his retirement in 2010.

Butch is survived by his wife, Jo Ann Balch Tate; daughters, Kimberly Jo Sullivan and Coco Tate (Jeremy) Crutcher; grandchildren, Cameron Sullivan, Cody Sullivan, Tate Hughes, Millie Crutcher, and Jett Crutcher; his brother, James Raye (Shirley) Tate; and many extended family members and dear friends.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his son-in-law, Terry Ray Sullivan.

The family will receive friends on Wednesday, June 18, 2025, from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Hazel Green Funeral Home. Funeral services will be held on Thursday, June 19, 2025, at 11:00 AM, also at Hazel Green Funeral Home, with Pastor Brad Williams officiating. Interment will follow at Charity Cemetery.

Hazel Green Funeral Home is honored to serve the Tate family.