Dena Jean Tate

TATE, Dena Jean, age 71, of Sugar Creek Twp., passed away July 14, 2024. 

Dena was born July 14, 1953 to the late William and Emogene (Jackson) Middleton. In her younger years, some of her fondest memories were the time she spent in Michigan with her mother and father. She and her father would spend hours fishing on the lake. She had a strong creative streak, earning her undergraduate degree in art at WSU. Dena used her artistic talents in the beautiful paintings and greeting cards she made, as well as creating beautiful pieces of pottery. She loved her granddaughters deeply and provided so much encouragement to them. She was there for many of Rylin’s firsts and many of Emma’s concerts, with a front row smile. 

Dena enjoyed the beach, Ft. Myer’s specifically, she had fond memories of vacations to Disney World, her cross-county train trip and her visit to Memphis and Graceland. Throughout her life, she had several pets, all of whom she cared for deeply. Dena was a massive Beatles fan, had a soft spot for flamingos and was a devoted fan to the Cincinnati Bengals. She most recently worked as a clerk for the City of Kettering. Dena was a strong and kind woman who devoted her life to being a wife, mother, and grandmother. 

She will be missed by all who knew and loved her. Left to cherish her memory are her husband, Donald Tate; daughter, Heather (Justin) Menard; and granddaughters, Emma and Rylin. The family will be planning a celebration of life for Dena at a future date. Information will be shared with her family and friends as plans are made.