Obituary

Alpha Mae Shanks Tate

December 13, 1941 - December 15, 2025

“The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters. He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name's sake. Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me. Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over.  Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the Lord for ever.”        23 Psalms

Alpha Mae Shanks Tate was born December 13, 1941 a child of ten to the late Ellis and Belauh Melancon Shanks in Tangipahoa, LA. She passed away December 15, 2025 in Franklinton, LA.

Alpha loved working in her yard and watching golf. She never played golf, but she loved to watch.

Alpha leaves to cherish her memory, three daughters, Sheila James of Bolivar, LA, Shekeitha James of Franklinton, LA, and Sandra Tate of New Orleans, LA; one son, Anthony James of Magnolia, MS; five grandchildren; one great grandchild; one great great grandchild and a host of nieces and nephews who all loved her dearly.

Alpha was preceded in death by her parents; a daughter, Latery James; seven sisters and two brothers.

First, thanks for taking time to celebrate mom: "For God so loved the world that he gave his only son that whosoever believed in him shall not perish but have eternal life" – John 3:16. Mom celebrated her 84 birthday December 13th.

A visitation will be held on Tuesday, December 23, 2025 from 9:00AM - 11:00AM followed by the funeral service at 11:00AM at Crain and Sons Funeral Home with Rev. Darryl Shanks - Officiating. 

Crain and Sons Funeral Home - Franklinton are in charge of arrangements.