Claude Legate

Claude Ellison Legate, 88, died January 6, 2018, at Hospice Ministries in Ridgeland, MS, surrounded by his family.  He was born in Pickens, MS to the late Carl and Maude Legate on August 25, 1929, and grew up in Lexington, MS.  Not yet out of High School he joined the Army and served in WWII and later the Korean Conflict qualified as a parachutist.  He was later promoted to Lieutenant in 1947.

Following Military service, Claude continued his education and graduated in Accounting from Ole Miss, he began work with GMAC.  He later received his law degree from Mississippi College School of Law and practiced law until his retirement.

He was a member of the Post 1 American Legion and served as Judge Advocate for 18 years.  He served on the Board of Boswell Regional Human Rights Committee.

He was a longtime member of Epworth United Methodist Church until its closing and became a faithful member of First Independent Methodist Church in Madison, MS.  Claude was an avid gardener and often said, “If you can’t eat it, don’t grow it”.

He is preceded in death by his brother, Carl Legate.  He is survived by his wife of over 66 years, Hazel Nevel Legate, and three children, Dennis (Melissa) Legate of Brandon, Claudia Johnson of Madison and Carl Legate of Chelsea, AL.  Five grandchildren, Christian (Shawn) Funderburk of Houston, TX, Graham (Ashley) Legate of Brandon and Jessica Higdon of Madison, Adam Legate of Helena, AL and Luke Legate of Helena, AL; and three great granddaughters; brother, Bob (Dot) Legate of  Brandon; sisters, Sarah Brinkley of Bristol, TN, Blanche Jackson of Duncanville, TX and Grace (Dick) Collins of Ponca, OK.

A memorial service will take place at Ott & Lee Funeral Home in Brandon, MS, 2pm Wednesday with visitation starting at 1pm prior.