Leland Pate

Leland Pate, a beloved father, grandfather, skilled mechanic, and cherished community member, passed away peacefully on March 19, 2025, at the age of 88. Born on June 25, 1936 in Spurger, Texas to Clarence Raymond and Rose Weldon (Bendy) Pate, Leland made a lasting impact on all who knew him throughout his remarkable life.

A proud veteran of the U.S. Navy, Leland served aboard the USS Bremerton, where he developed a commitment to hard work and excellence that would define his career. He spent many years working tirelessly in oilfield construction for Wilson Oilfield Services, demonstrating his deep expertise and dedication to the industry.

In addition to his work in oilfield construction, Leland was the owner/operator of Lake Leon Boat-Tel & Cafe for 38 years, creating a welcoming community hub where countless memories were made around delicious catfish, steaks and good company. He was known to be a straight shooter, as tough as they come, but also for his generosity.

He was married to his beloved wife, El-Wanda Taylor, on February 6, 1959, in Tuscola, and together they built a life filled with love, hard work and adventures. He is survived by his son, Raymond Pate and wife, Bobbie of Abilene; son-in-law Jimmy Don Wilson of Ranger; three grandsons, J.D. Wilson and wife, Arrianna of Ranger, Lucas Pate and wife, Amanda of Bryan, Chance Wilson and wife, Wanda of Ranger, four granddaughters, Kristin Lee and husband, Keven of Midland, D'nae Veit and husband, Chase of Bryan, Mistie Conklin of Midland, and Tifine Conklin of Midland; and 15 great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Clarence and Rose Pate; his wife, El-Wanda Pate; and a daughter, Leann Wilson.

As we celebrate the life of Leland Pate, we invite all who knew and loved him to join us in honoring his memory. A visitation will take place at Edwards Funeral Home in Ranger on Sunday, March 23, 2025, from 5 p.m. until 7 p.m. A graveside service will follow at Bullock Cemetery on Monday, March 24, 2025, at 10 a.m. with Ronny Guess officiating.

Pallbearers are J.D. Wilson, Lucas Pate, Chance Wilson, Dylan Wilson, Jayton Wilson, and Tucker Boring. Honorary Pallbearer will be Brody Pate.

Though Leland may be gone from our sight, his spirit will live on in the hearts of all those he touched.