Surena "Tootsie" Pate Berford

Mother Surena "Tootsie" Pate Berford was born on September 9, 1937, in Kershaw, South Carolina, to the late John Pate and Irene Gayle Lynn. On March 11, 2026, she passed away at Abbotts Creek Center.

A woman of deep faith and quiet strength, Mother Surena believed in hard work and caring for others. While living in Washington, DC, she served in homecare, offering loving support to those in need. After returning to North Carolina, she worked for many years at Henry Link Furniture in the cabinet room until her retirement. Above all, she loved the Lord and remained devoted to her church. A faithful member of New Faith Full Gospel Worship Center, she served as Mother of the Church, known for her strong faith, fervent prayers, and encouraging words. She carried a sweet spirit and a loving heart, always reminding others to trust God and keep the faith. Her life was one of genuine service, compassion, and dedication to the Kingdom of God.

She was preceded in death by her parents, John Pate and Irene Lynn; two sons, Johnny Pate and Malachi Pate; one daughter, Sara Pate; and two grandchildren, William Pate and Antoine Pate.

Those left to cherish her memory include her loving children, Willie "Cathy" Parker, Gordon (Rachel) Pate, and Isaac Lewis (Deidra) Cauthen; daughter-in-law, Deborah Pate; eleven grandchildren; nineteen great-grandchildren; and two great-great-grandchildren. She also leaves one sister, Lottie Lee Sowell; sister-in-law, Gwendolyn Lynn; five special friends, Olla Shropshire, Mary Crump, Wendy Mahala, Bertha Cowan, and Mary Thomas; goddaughter, Margaret Horne; along with a host of nieces, nephews, extended family, her beloved church family, and many friends whose lives were touched by her love and godly example. Her prayers, love, and legacy of faith will continue to live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved her.