Ms. Valerie Jean ("Val") Tate

Ms. Valerie Jean Tate of St. Louis, MO, went home to be with the LORD on October 7, 2021. She was 60 years of age. 

Valerie was born May 27, 1961, in St. Louis, MO, as the second child to Julian R. Tate and Joyce E. Sheppard. She was born with a best friend, her sister Stephanie, who she remained close with her entire life. Valerie attended Walnut Park Elementary and Northwest High School. From early on, Valerie had a magnetic personality and made many friends who were attracted to her fun-loving and free spirit.

Valerie married Randolph Breckenridge, Jr., in 1981, with whom she shares a daughter, Ameyah Breckenridge; a son, Randolph Breckenridge III; and a grandson, Demarkco Smith. 

For over 20 years, Valerie devoted herself to the health and well-being of others. She was an employee of SSM Healthcare, where she touched many lives with her beautiful bright smile.

As a member of the Circle of Light Church, Valerie was born again in 1994 under the leadership of Rev. Jeff  Johnson, Jr., where she gave her life to the Lord. She was baptized in August 1995. Valerie was committed to spreading the word to whomever she encountered; she was truly a living testimony. She spent her time telling her life story to whoever would listen. Her favorite song was “Hold On Old Soldier.”

Valerie was a loving mother, grandmother, sister, and friend to many. She was the life of the party. She loved music and she also loved to dance. Valerie loved to travel and meet new people and experience new things. She had a huge heart and would give anyone her last, including the shirt off  her back. She will be sorely missed by all who knew and loved her. 

Valerie was survived by: her daughter, Ameyah Breckenridge; son, Randolph Breckenridge III (Dennis); grandson, DeMarkco Smith; sisters, Stephanie Brownlee, Lynn Tate, and Julie Tate; brothers, Eric Potts and Eugene Potts; nephew, Reama Brownlee; nieces, Keesha “TuTu” Brownlee, Stacee Brownlee-Smith (Paulinho), and Rainah Walker (Quinton); and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, other friends, and church family.

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