Lee Barnhill Cate was born in Memphis, Tennessee on December 18, 1944. She was the daughter of the late Oscar Howell Barnhill and Alice Beulah Paulk.

Ms. Cate received a Master's Degree in Supervision and Administration from The University of Tennessee at Martin. She worked as a Food Service Supervisor for Obion County Schools for over 30 years. She was an avid reader and genealogical researcher.

She departed this life on June 14, 2020 with her family at her side at the age of 75 years. Ms. Cate is survived by a brother, James H. Barnhill of Savannah, Tennessee, a son James Howard Cate and his wife, Vickie, of Chattanooga Tennessee, and a daughter, Laura Cate Plunk of Martin, Tennessee. In addition she is survived by three grandchildren, James Howard Cate, Jr., Elizabeth Cate Plunk, and Abigale Lee Plunk. She is also survived by three nephews, Bradford Davis Barnhill, John Howell Barnhill and James Clifton Barnhill. She was preceded in death by her parents.

At her request, there will be no services. There will be a small graveside burial with her family in Savannah, Tennessee. In lieu of flowers, please give a memorial gift to Walk of Hope of Obion County, Obion County Library Genealogy Center, Weakley County Historical & Genealogical Society or a charitable organization of your choice.

Edmaiston Mosley Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.