02/16/2026
Ronald "Chic" Wayne Pate
Ronald “Chic” Wayne Pate March 15, 1950 – February 14, 2026 Ronald Wayne Pate, affectionately known as “Chic,” passed away on February 14, 2026. A proud Halifax County native, Ronnie was a true hometown hero and, as many would say, a superstar from the very beginning. Born to Norman Pate (Pop) and Louise Pate (Lou Lou), Ronnie grew up in the Carter Fabrics area on Magnolia Drive, where he formed lifelong friendships playing baseball and being mentored by Hugh Moore and Addison Marable.
From a young age, he was known as a handsome, blue-eyed boy with a competitive spirit and natural athletic ability. He excelled in baseball and football and later earned a football scholarship to the University of North Carolina—becoming a Tar Heel fan for life and proudly claiming the title of UNC’s biggest supporter. Before he could finish college, Ronnie was drafted into the United States Army. He served two tours in Vietnam as a member of the Special Forces. For his bravery and sacrifice, he was awarded the Bronze Star and the Purple Heart. His courage and strength defined him not only during his military service, but throughout his entire life. After returning home, Ronnie continued serving his community as a longtime and dedicated member of the South Boston Volunteer Fire Department. His commitment to helping others extended beyond the fire department. He was actively involved in local government and countless community events, always willing to lend a hand wherever it was needed. If something was happening in South Boston, Ronnie was likely there—supporting, organizing, cheering, or leading.
He was known by absolutely everyone in town and truly never met a stranger. His personality, warmth, and larger-than-life presence made him unforgettable. Ronnie was also widely recognized as one of the best salesmen around, working at various car dealerships, insurance companies, and other fields throughout his career. He had a natural ability to connect with people—something that made him successful in business and beloved in life. Athletics remained a lifelong passion from his coaching Dixie Youth Baseball to playing slow pitch softball himself, was an avid golfer, and competed and umpired games at all levels and in multiple states. Many remember him at Greens Folly Golf Course or the Halifax Country Club for doing anything from keeping score, flipping burgers, or simply being “Mr. Halifax County.”
Additionally, he was a long-time writer for the Gazette Virginian where he wrote about the local sports community in his column, “Playing Through.” Sports were more than a pastime—they were part of who he was. He loved beach music, sh****ng on the boulevard, and being around friends. He enjoyed a good time and brought energy and laughter wherever he went. Above all, Ronnie’s greatest accomplishment and proudest role was being a husband, father, and grandfather. He married the love of his life, Connie Whitlow Pate, and together they built a beautiful family. He was endlessly proud of his children and grandchildren. Anyone who spent even a few minutes with him knew how much he loved them because he never stopped talking about their accomplishments. They were his heart and his legacy, and they were proud to call him their hero.
Ronnie is survived by his devoted wife, Connie; his children, Gabby (Marc) Bridgers, Dori (RD) Cole, and Joe (Carrie) Pate; and his cherished grandchildren, Chandler Bridgers, Gavin Bridgers, Lucy Bottoms (Dawson), Paten Cole, Spencer Pate, Lacy Pate, Nicholas Pate, Cami Cole, and Elle Pate, as well as great-grandchild Desmond Bottoms.
He was preceded in death by his sister Jean Spence and his brothers Ray Saunders and Chuck Pate. Last but not least, a special friend and caregiver: Elanor Heitt. The King may have officially left the building, but his story will continue to be told throughout South Boston. His legacy of service, laughter, love, and pride in his family will live on in every life he touched. He loved his family more than life itself, and they will continue to carry his love forward.
A Celebration of Ronnie’s Life will be held at First Baptist Church on Saturday, February 21, 2026 at 2:00 PM, with the Rev. Bill Boelte officiating.
The family will receive friends Saturday one hour prior to the service, and other times at 5022 Quail Roost Road, South Boston. A reception will follow in the fellowship hall of the church where friends can gather and share their memories of Ronnie.
For memorials, please consider the South Boston Volunteer Fire Department, the Halifax County High School Booster Club, or South Boston Dixie Youth Baseball.
Online condolences may be made at www.powellfuneralinc.com.
Arrangements are entrusted to Powell Funeral Home and Cremation Services, 1603 Wilborn Avenue, South Boston, VA 24592.
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