Denise Tate

Denise Clement Tate, 56, of Southaven, MS, passed away on June 26, 2025, surrounded by her loving family and friends. Born December 29, 1968, in Statesboro, GA, Denise was the daughter of Travis and Norma Clement (Campbell).

Denise graduated from Water Valley High School in 1987 and went on to earn her Bachelor of Science in Nursing at the University of Mississippi Medical Center. With a heart as big as her smile, Denise poured herself into her work. She began her career at the VA in Memphis, TN, and later served as a hospice nurse, offering comfort, dignity, and compassion to countless patients and families. Nursing wasn’t just her profession—it was her calling, and those who received her care were touched by her selfless, nurturing spirit.

Those who knew Denise knew her to be strong-willed and sweet, goofy and wise, dependable to the core with just the right dose of sass. She loved her people fiercely. Whether she was showing up with a thoughtful gift (that you never knew you needed), snapping the perfect candid photo, or staying up late to laugh over board games, Denise made everyone around her feel seen and loved.

She loved traveling, capturing moments with photos and videos, spending time at the beach, cheering for the Memphis Grizzlies, and making memories with her family. Denise shared a special bond with her dear best friend and caretaker, Ramona. Ramona was more than a friend, she was family, a constant presence by Denise’s side whose love, strength, and devotion never wavered. She deeply cherished spending time with her lifelong friends known as the “Musketeers,” a tight-knit group of women who stood by each other through many seasons of life, sharing laughter, love, and decades of memories. Her sense of humor was quirky, her presence unforgettable, and yes—she was fashionably late more often than not, earning her the endearing nickname “Pokey” from her daddy.

Denise leaves behind a legacy of love in her children, Roman Tate and Lydia Brooke Tate; her sister, Charlotte Gray (Steven); her brother, Lance Clement (Andrea’); her nieces and nephews, Andrew Gray (Amber Lea), Courtney Small (Jeffrey), Caitlin Magnuson (Joe), Camron Gray (Whitney), Cooper Clement (Shelby), Coulter Clement, and Chloe Clement; six great-nieces and nephews; and many other beloved family members and dear friends.

She was welcomed into the Kingdom of God by those who went before her: father, Travis Otis Clement; mother, Norma Jean Clement; and stepmother, Jeannie Ann Clement.

A visitation will be held July 12, 2025 at 1:00 PM at Seven Oaks Funeral Home in Water Valley, MS. A celebration of Denise’s life will follow at 3:00 PM, with Rev. Amber Lea Gray officiating. Graveside service will take place at Oak Hill Cemetery in Water Valley following the service. Her family is encouraging guests to wear bright colors to celebrate her joyful spirit.

In honor of Denise’s generous heart and love for children, memorial donations may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

Though she is no longer with us in body, Denise’s laughter, love, and legacy will live on in all who had the gift of knowing her.

Live stream may be viewed here approximately 10 minutes before service time.

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