Tribute

Gemma (Gannon) Tate was born In Tuam, County Galway, Ireland on September 28, 1940, fifth child of Joseph and Nora (Jennings) Gannon. She was raised a few miles away in her home town of Ballinrobe, County Mayo, Ireland. She took her last breath at home in Bonney Lake, Pierce County, Washington, USA, during the afternoon of November 23, 2023.

Gemma lost her beloved daughter, Amisha, 3 years before she herself passed. She is survived by her husband of 57 years, Norman; and, by their son, Delvon, his wife, Diana, their three adult children, Katriana, Jordan and Ryan; and, by a host of cousins, nieces, nephews, in-laws and life-long friends. They were always in her thoughts and prayers, as she certainly will be in theirs.

Gemma married Norman on October 12, 1967, in St. Mary’s Church, in Ballinrobe. The church was filled to overflowing – a tribute to how much she was loved and respected. Their life together is a love story, glimpses of which are shared elsewhere in this memorial.

Gemma enjoyed sharing stories of her early life in Ballinrobe, and at boarding school in Dublin. Those stories tell of happy times and sad times, and they paint a good picture of how she became the woman she was. A smart and inquiring person, she questioned things critically and found her own truths. A loving and caring person, she gave of herself freely, bringing out the best in others.

Gemma’s last career was the 20 years she spent serving the public in the Pierce County Library System, a setting which suited her interests and talents perfectly, and delighted and fulfilled her.

Gemma left this world at peace. She was accepting of her fate. She lived a very good life! She was loved. She felt blessed.

Those who knew her well are equally blessed. She will be greatly missed.

                                                                                           May dear Gemma rest in peace forever.

                                      (Please share your own remembrances and photos of Gemma.)

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