It is with a very heavy heart that we inform you of the death of JoAnn Tate, special assignment missionary to Trinidad.

JoAnn’s untimely death occurred December 20 at the Arima Hospital in Port of Spain, Trinidad, shortly after returning there from overseas travel. The cause of her death is unknown at this time.

JoAnn and her husband Bob have served faithfully for nearly two years in Trinidad and Tobago. JoAnn worked as a teacher at West Indies Theological College (WITC). and Bob used his expertise and knowledge of agriculture to assist the people there. 

“The Tates have made a tremendous impact at the West Indies Theological College,” said Bob Edwards, coordinator for Global Missions at Church of God Ministries. “Their personal efforts have made significant enhancements in both the academics and the development of the physical plant for the school during these difficult and financially challenging times. During a phone conversation, President Clinton Providence of the West Indies Theological College told me they don't know what they will do without JoAnn: ‘This is a great loss to the students and school.’”

Earlier in their ministry career, the Bob and JoAnn served for ten years as independent missionaries in Peru.

JoAnn is survived by her husband Bob; six children with their spouses and children; and JoAnn’s parents, Tom and Lois Shields.

While we grieve the loss of JoAnn, we can rejoice, knowing she will be there in heaven with the Messiah as we here on earth celebrate his birth this Advent season.

Please pray for comfort and peace for the Tate family during this difficult time.