Zelma Mae Vesser Cate — age 104, passed away on January 8, 2026.

Most who knew Zelma called her “Granny”, and she cared for generations of children in the Mascot community. She was the ultimate Southern hostess, always ready to welcome guests with sweet tea and pound cake. She faithfully served the Lord, her family, and the Mascot community for all of her years. She was the oldest member of the Mascot United Methodist Church.

Zelma was preceded in death by her parents, Andy and Tinnie Vesser; husband, Herbert Willis Cate, Sr.; brothers, Carl and Tom Vesser; sister, Pansy Vesser Boy (Joe); son, Joseph Cate; daughters-in-law, Cathey Cate and Mary Cate; grandson, Aidan Cate; and brother-in-law, Fred Day.

She is survived by her son, Herbert Willis Cate, Jr.; daughter, Nettie Cate; sister, Nancy Day; grandchildren, Will (Kim) Cate, Andy (Carrie) Cate, and Elizabeth Cate; great-grandchildren, Caleb Cate, Austin (Kaylan), Ethan, and Mary Grace Cate, Sammie Jo and Maggie Mae Wilson, Leigha Cate, and Josephine Cate; and special friend, Sue Brown.

The family will receive friends from 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM on Sunday, January 11, 2026 at Bridges Funeral Home. A Funeral Service will follow at 7:00 PM, with Rev. Will Cate and Rev. John M. Kelley officiating. Family and friends will meet at 11:45 AM on Monday at Piedmont Cemetery for a 12:00 PM Graveside Service.

Pallbearers: Will Cate, Andy Cate, Austin Cate, Ethan Cate, Caleb Cate, and Sammie Jo Wilson.

Honorary Pallbearers: Earl Flynn, Kenny Yoakum, Bill Yoakum, John O’Barr, Henry Cloud, Walter Ricketts, Aidan Cate, and Charlie Holt.

Arrangements by Bridges Funeral Home, 5430 Rutledge Pike, Knoxville, TN 37924. www.bridgesfuneralhome.com