BENTON – Mary Jeanette Tate, 79, of Benton, died at 11:58 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 12, 2026, at her home.

Funeral services will be held at noon Saturday, Feb. 21, 2026, at the West City Church of God, with the Rev. Harol Whitlock officiating. Burial will follow in the Masonic and Odd Fellows Cemetery in Benton. Visitation will be from 10 a.m. to noon Saturday at the church.

Leffler Funeral Home in Benton is in charge of arrangements.

Mrs. Tate was born Dec. 25, 1946, in Buckner, the daughter of James Neal Morrison Jr. and Della (Stalorites) Morrison.

A member of the West City Church of God, she enjoyed worship and spending time with her family. Her professional career included 25 years as a legal secretary for Bill Hart, 20 years with IBEW Local 702, and work with attorney Paula Newcomb.

Survivors include two sons, Jason Tate and wife Lisa of West Frankfort, and Andy Tate and wife Megan of Herrin; two grandchildren, Austin Tate and wife Mallory of St. Augustine, Florida, and Madison Tate of West Frankfort; a brother, James Morrison III and wife Karen of Benton; and several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents and a sister, Rebecca Roberts.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Susan G. Komen organization or will be accepted at the service.

Online condolences or memories may be shared at the funeral home’s website.