Jean Jones Pate

Jean Jones Pate, 85, of Bethune, SC, passed away Monday morning, July 13, 2026, at Prisma Health Richland Hospital in Columbia, SC.

Born in Bethune, SC, she was the daughter of the late Leon Jones and Cleora Estridge Jones. Jean devoted 30 years to educating children as a teacher in the Kershaw County School District before her retirement. She was an avid reader who found joy in gardening and feeding the birds. She was an amazing cook and enjoyed making cakes. A faithful member of Timrod Baptist Church, Jean generously shared her time and talents, faithfully serving her church with a true servant's heart.

Jean is survived by her loving husband of 64 years, Cecil M. Pate of the home; two sons, Duane Pate (Lori) of Cassatt, SC, and Eric Pate (Lesli) of Bethune, SC; four cherished grandchildren, Beth (Joe) Carlucci, Megan (Carlos) Castro, Madeline (John) Bowers, and Levi Pate; four beloved great-grandchildren, Olivia Carlucci, Cruz Castro, Joseph Carlucci, and Remi Castro; her brother, Gerald "Jerry" Jones (Glendora) of Bethune, SC; and two sisters, Leonora Kelly of Hartsville, SC, and Laura Langley of Bethune, SC.

A memorial service celebrating Jean's life will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, July 22, 2026, in the sanctuary of Timrod Baptist Church. The Rev. Jeremy Ussery will officiate.

The family will receive friends for one hour prior to the service, beginning at 10:00 a.m., in the church Family Life Center.

Jean leaves behind a lasting legacy of faith, kindness, and love that will continue to live on through her family and all who were blessed to know her.

Memorials may be made in Jean's memory to Timrod Baptist Church, 4227 Timrod Road, Bethune, SC 29009.

Arrangements are under the care of Baker Funeral Home, Kershaw, SC.