05/15/2026
Our founder and president.
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Claude Ray Tate, 81, of Charleston, WV, died peacefully at home in his sleep on
Wednesday, May 13, 2026, surrounded by family.
Ray was born on April 5, 1945, to Andrew Tate and Arleen Phillips Tate in Charleston, WV.
Ray was a lifelong resident of Charleston, a graduate of Stonewall Jackson High School, and served in the Army Reserves. A great source of pride for Ray was the company that he founded, owned, and was still the president of, Raocat Rubber. That
business that began in 1987 still operates today after nearly 40 years.
Ray is preceded in death by his parents, Andrew Tate and Arleen Phillips Tate; brothers, Charles Tate and Kenny Tate; and sister, Roberta Tate Bowyer.
Ray is survived by his loving wife of 58 years, Donna Caplinger Tate; sister, Sharon Keller; brother, Robert Tate; sons, Ray Allen Tate (Julie) and Steve Tate (Katie); grandchildren, Erik Tate (Breaha), Summer Tate (Joel Hanson), Jillian Tate, Jesse Tate (Courtney), Kaylee Tate-Smith (Jagur), and Joseph Tate; great granddaughter, Amelia
Tate.
Ray is survived, as well, by many loved ones and extended family members who have been greatly impacted by having Ray in their lives. He was such a powerful presence and will be greatly missed.
Thank you to Hospice, whose support in the end made Ray’s transition comfortable and gave invaluable support to the family.
A memorial visitation will be held on Sunday, May 17, 2026, from 12:00 - 2:00, at Keller Funeral Home in Dunbar, WV. Immediately following will be a graveside service at the family cemetery, Mt. Calvary, on Limestone Road in Charleston.
