Fletcher Vernon "Bud" Pate, 91, of Dixie Trail, Raleigh, NC passed away November 19, 2015. He was born in Goldsboro, NC, August 29, 1924, the son of the late Rupert V. and Belle Gurley Pate.

Bud graduated from Goldsboro High School in 1942 and attended Wake Forest College. He volunteered to join the U.S. Army Air Corps and was a navigator on a B-29 aircraft during World War II. While living in Goldsboro, Bud met his future wife, Henrietta J. Pate, and they were later married in San Marcus, TX while he was stationed there during WWII. They were married for 68 years. He was a founding member of Forest Hills Baptist Church, where he taught youth Sunday school.

Bud worked in sales and later was self-employed for 30 years as owner of Bud Pate Printing. He provided excellent service to his customers and enjoyed maintaining friendships with them. He enjoyed playing golf with his many friends at Raleigh Golf Association. He was an active member for 60 years and past Master of William G. Hill Masonic Lodge #218.

He is survived by his son Fletcher J. Pate and wife Nancy, daughter Sandra P. Pierce and husband Stuart; grandchildren Pate Pierce and wife Anna, Brent Pierce and wife Kari, Walt Pierce and wife Mary Page, Michael Pate and wife Beth, and David Pate and wife Cindy; great grandchildren Fletcher, Camille, Liza, Henry, Dempsey, Bennett, and Stuart Pierce.

The family extends their gratitude and appreciation to caregiver Roger Haithcock who assisted Bud during recent months.

A funeral service will be held at 12:00 noon Monday November 23 at Montlawn Funeral Home with visitation at 11:00 am. Internment will follow at Montlawn.

Memorials may be made to Forest Hills Baptist Church, 201 Dixie Trail, Raleigh NC 27607; Meals on Wheels 1001 Blair Dr. Raleigh NC 27603, or the charity of one's choice.

Arrangements are by Montlawn Funeral Home, 2911 S. Wilmington St., Raleigh, N.C. Condolences may be made through this online guestbook.