Joseph D. Pate, Jr.

“J.D.”

Age 56 of Wilmington, Illinois and formerly of Monroe, North Carolina, died at his home on Friday, September 1, 2023, following a long hard fought battle with stage four cancer.

Born May 27, 1967 in Chicago, Illinois, Joseph David was a son of Joseph David Pate, Sr. and Betty Jean Charnas. He was raised in Monroe, North Carolina and went on to earn his degree in Criminal Justice and Political Science from Loyola University. On April 13, 1991, Joe married Carolyn Craven in the Wayside Chapel in Palos Park, and together they made a home and raised a family.

Joe made his career in law enforcement and worked for various police departments before gaining employment with the Illinois Department of Corrections, where he spent the past 23 years. He was currently serving as a Parole Officer in the Sex Offender Unit, and was a member of the Fraternal Order of Police.

One who loved his truck and listening to country music; In his free time, Joe enjoyed cooking and fishing, as well as playing pool. His greatest hobby however was family, and Joe's utmost joy was his title of “Grampy”.

Survivors include his wife, Carolyn; four daughters: Caitlin (Matthew) Rieve of Peotone, Illinois, Stephanie Pate of Frankfort, Illinois, and Nicole Pate (finance’ – Seth Bogash) and Jessica Pate, both of Wilmington; nine grandchildren: Leo, Freya, Ryder, Teagan, Liam, Greyson, Grace, Charlotte and Archer, and two step-sisters: Carol Jean (Ron) Jackson and Julie (Fred) Veres, both of Oak Lawn, as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

Joe was preceded in death by his parents and his father-in-law and mother-in-law, Eugene Craven and Patricia Craven.

Private family services are being held, and cremation rites will be accorded.

Per his wishes, Joe will be returned home to red clay country roads of North Carolina.

Family and friends are encouraged to log onto www.BaskervilleFuneral.com to sign the guest book for the family.

Services and cremation are being made under the direction and care of Reeves & Baskerville Funeral Homes and Crematory. (815-476-2181)