Steven A. Pate
Owner-Licensed Funeral Director & Embalmer / Crematory Operator
Steven Pate is the Owner, Licensed Funeral Director & Embalmer, and Certified Crematory Operator of Pate Funeral Home. A lifelong believer in the importance of honoring every life with dignity, compassion, and excellence, Steven has dedicated his career to serving families during their most difficult moments with professionalism and genuine care.
Raised in the close-knit farming community of Saint Jacob, Illinois, Steven learned the values of hard work, integrity, and service at an early age. He graduated from Triad High School in 2003 before earning his Associate Degree in Funeral Service Education from St. Louis Community College–Forest Park in 2006. Early in his career, Steven gained invaluable experience serving families at several respected funeral homes and crematories throughout the St. Louis Metro East, where he developed the knowledge and skills that continue to guide his work today.
Steven is a licensed Funeral Director and Embalmer in both Illinois and Missouri and is a Certified Crematory Operator. Throughout his career, he has remained committed to advancing the funeral profession, serving as Secretary/Treasurer, Vice President, and President of the St. Clair County Funeral Directors Association and currently serving as Region 3 Director for the Illinois Funeral Directors Association.
In November 2013, Steven became President of Hobbs-Johnson Funeral Home & Crematory, continuing a tradition of compassionate care while leading the organization into a new era of growth and service. Today, as owner of Pate Funeral Home, he remains devoted to helping families create meaningful tributes that celebrate life, preserve cherished memories, and provide comfort during times of loss.
Steven's dedication extends far beyond the funeral home. He is a Past President of the Benton Rotary Club and the Benton-West City Area Chamber of Commerce and continues to serve his community through the Benton-West City Economic Development Corporation, Benton Elks Lodge #1234, Benton Lions Club, and the Sons and Grandsons of the Benton American Legion. His passion for community service has earned numerous honors, including being named one of the Southern Business Journal's Leaders Among Us in 2017, Citizen of the Year by the Benton-West City Area Chamber of Commerce in 2019, and celebrating Pate Funeral Home being recognized as Business of the Year in 2018. In 2020, Pate Funeral Home was honored with the Illinois Award of Funeral Service Distinction, recognizing its commitment to exceptional care and service.
Whether guiding a family through the funeral planning process, mentoring fellow professionals, or giving back to the community he proudly calls home, Steven is driven by one simple mission—to serve others with compassion, integrity, and excellence. Outside of work, he enjoys spending time with his beloved dog, Luna, whose loyal companionship provides a welcome balance to the demands of serving families and reminds him to appreciate life's simple joys.
Steven A. Pate
Owner-Licensed Funeral Director & Embalmer / Crematory Operator
Steven Pate is the Owner, Licensed Funeral Director & Embalmer, and Certified Crematory Operator of Pate Funeral Home. A lifelong believer in the importance of honoring every life with dignity, compassion, and excellence, Steven has dedicated his career to serving families during their most difficult moments with professionalism and genuine care.
Raised in the close-knit farming community of Saint Jacob, Illinois, Steven learned the values of hard work, integrity, and service at an early age. He graduated from Triad High School in 2003 before earning his Associate Degree in Funeral Service Education from St. Louis Community College–Forest Park in 2006. Early in his career, Steven gained invaluable experience serving families at several respected funeral homes and crematories throughout the St. Louis Metro East, where he developed the knowledge and skills that continue to guide his work today.
Steven is a licensed Funeral Director and Embalmer in both Illinois and Missouri and is a Certified Crematory Operator. Throughout his career, he has remained committed to advancing the funeral profession, serving as Secretary/Treasurer, Vice President, and President of the St. Clair County Funeral Directors Association and currently serving as Region 3 Director for the Illinois Funeral Directors Association.
In November 2013, Steven became President of Hobbs-Johnson Funeral Home & Crematory, continuing a tradition of compassionate care while leading the organization into a new era of growth and service. Today, as owner of Pate Funeral Home, he remains devoted to helping families create meaningful tributes that celebrate life, preserve cherished memories, and provide comfort during times of loss.
Steven's dedication extends far beyond the funeral home. He is a Past President of the Benton Rotary Club and the Benton-West City Area Chamber of Commerce and continues to serve his community through the Benton-West City Economic Development Corporation, Benton Elks Lodge #1234, Benton Lions Club, and the Sons and Grandsons of the Benton American Legion. His passion for community service has earned numerous honors, including being named one of the Southern Business Journal's Leaders Among Us in 2017, Citizen of the Year by the Benton-West City Area Chamber of Commerce in 2019, and celebrating Pate Funeral Home being recognized as Business of the Year in 2018. In 2020, Pate Funeral Home was honored with the Illinois Award of Funeral Service Distinction, recognizing its commitment to exceptional care and service.
Whether guiding a family through the funeral planning process, mentoring fellow professionals, or giving back to the community he proudly calls home, Steven is driven by one simple mission—to serve others with compassion, integrity, and excellence. Outside of work, he enjoys spending time with his beloved dog, Luna, whose loyal companionship provides a welcome balance to the demands of serving families and reminds him to appreciate life's simple joys.
Matt McGowan
Licensed Funeral Director Apprentice / Certified Crematory Operator
Matt grew up on the outskirts of Carterville and graduated from Herrin High School in 2014. Following graduation, he attended Army Basic Training and Infantry School at Fort Benning, where he began a distinguished period of military service. After completing his service, Matt attended John A. Logan College, earning his Associate of Arts degree in 2022.
On May 9, 2026, Matt graduated from Southern Illinois University Carbondale with a Bachelor of Science in Mortuary Science and Funeral Service. He also successfully passed both sections of the National Board Examination, a significant professional milestone as he begins his career in funeral service.
Committed to lifelong learning, Matt plans to continue serving families while pursuing a Master's degree in Forensic Medicine through the University of Florida.
Matt is the son of Melanie and Tim McGowan. His compassion, professionalism, and exceptional attention to detail make him an invaluable member of our team. He is dedicated to providing thoughtful, respectful care to every family he serves, and we are proud to have him as part of our funeral home family.
Matt McGowan
Licensed Funeral Director Apprentice / Certified Crematory Operator
Matt grew up on the outskirts of Carterville and graduated from Herrin High School in 2014. Following graduation, he attended Army Basic Training and Infantry School at Fort Benning, where he began a distinguished period of military service. After completing his service, Matt attended John A. Logan College, earning his Associate of Arts degree in 2022.
On May 9, 2026, Matt graduated from Southern Illinois University Carbondale with a Bachelor of Science in Mortuary Science and Funeral Service. He also successfully passed both sections of the National Board Examination, a significant professional milestone as he begins his career in funeral service.
Committed to lifelong learning, Matt plans to continue serving families while pursuing a Master's degree in Forensic Medicine through the University of Florida.
Matt is the son of Melanie and Tim McGowan. His compassion, professionalism, and exceptional attention to detail make him an invaluable member of our team. He is dedicated to providing thoughtful, respectful care to every family he serves, and we are proud to have him as part of our funeral home family.
Denise Minor
Funeral Assistant / Certified Crematory Operator / Community Out Reach Director
Denise Minor serves as Funeral Assistant, Certified Crematory Operator, and Community Outreach Director at Pate Funeral Home. A resident of Logan, Illinois, Denise was raised in Benton, where she developed the strong values of service, compassion, and community that continue to guide her today.
Denise is deeply committed to supporting families through one of life's most difficult seasons. Her gentle, genuine compassion and caring presence provide comfort to those experiencing the loss of a loved one, making her an invaluable member of the Pate Funeral Home team.
In addition to her work at the funeral home, Denise is a Deputy Coroner for Franklin County and the owner of Outbax Axe Throwing Venue in Logan, reflecting her passion for both community engagement and local business. She also retired with the rank of Major after a distinguished career with the Illinois Department of Corrections, where she dedicated many years to public service and leadership.
Above all, Denise treasures time with her family and grandchildren. Known for her creativity, warmth, and servant's heart, she is passionate about giving back to her community and is a trusted resource for the families she serves. Her experience, dedication, and compassionate spirit make her a tremendous asset to Pate Funeral Home.
Denise Minor
Funeral Assistant / Certified Crematory Operator / Community Out Reach Director
Denise Minor serves as Funeral Assistant, Certified Crematory Operator, and Community Outreach Director at Pate Funeral Home. A resident of Logan, Illinois, Denise was raised in Benton, where she developed the strong values of service, compassion, and community that continue to guide her today.
Denise is deeply committed to supporting families through one of life's most difficult seasons. Her gentle, genuine compassion and caring presence provide comfort to those experiencing the loss of a loved one, making her an invaluable member of the Pate Funeral Home team.
In addition to her work at the funeral home, Denise is a Deputy Coroner for Franklin County and the owner of Outbax Axe Throwing Venue in Logan, reflecting her passion for both community engagement and local business. She also retired with the rank of Major after a distinguished career with the Illinois Department of Corrections, where she dedicated many years to public service and leadership.
Above all, Denise treasures time with her family and grandchildren. Known for her creativity, warmth, and servant's heart, she is passionate about giving back to her community and is a trusted resource for the families she serves. Her experience, dedication, and compassionate spirit make her a tremendous asset to Pate Funeral Home.
Jaden Barton
Grounds Keeper / Maintenance Engineer / IT Specialist
Jaden Barton is a proud Southern Illinois native and resident of Benton, Illinois. Raised on his family's farm in Norris City, Jaden developed a strong work ethic and appreciation for hard work from an early age. He graduated from NCOE High School before earning his Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering from Murray State University.
Outside of work, Jaden is an avid sports enthusiast who enjoys following baseball, basketball, football, and NASCAR racing. He is also a proud member of the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks, reflecting his commitment to community and fellowship.
Jaden plays an invaluable role on our team. He is the driving force behind our IT systems, ensuring our technology stays current, reliable, and efficient. His attention to detail extends well beyond the office—his perfectionist approach is evident in the beautifully striped lawn he meticulously maintains. Whether it's solving technical challenges or making sure every detail is just right, Jaden brings dedication, precision, and pride to everything he does. His dependability and commitment to excellence make him an exceptional asset to our organization.
Jaden Barton
Grounds Keeper / Maintenance Engineer / IT Specialist
Jaden Barton is a proud Southern Illinois native and resident of Benton, Illinois. Raised on his family's farm in Norris City, Jaden developed a strong work ethic and appreciation for hard work from an early age. He graduated from NCOE High School before earning his Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering from Murray State University.
Outside of work, Jaden is an avid sports enthusiast who enjoys following baseball, basketball, football, and NASCAR racing. He is also a proud member of the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks, reflecting his commitment to community and fellowship.
Jaden plays an invaluable role on our team. He is the driving force behind our IT systems, ensuring our technology stays current, reliable, and efficient. His attention to detail extends well beyond the office—his perfectionist approach is evident in the beautifully striped lawn he meticulously maintains. Whether it's solving technical challenges or making sure every detail is just right, Jaden brings dedication, precision, and pride to everything he does. His dependability and commitment to excellence make him an exceptional asset to our organization.
Steve Pate Jr.
Funeral Assistant
Steve grew up in Troy, Illinois, and graduated from Triad High School in 1980. In November 1981, he married Becky Seipp, and together they made their home in Saint Jacob, Illinois.
A lifelong carpenter, Steve owned and operated Pate's Kitchen & Bath until October 2013, when he joined his son, Steven Pate, at the funeral home, assisting with services while also overseeing building maintenance and lawn care.
Steve has been actively involved in the Saint Jacob community, serving on the Volunteer Fire Department, participating in the Sons of the American Legion, and helping organize the highly successful Jakey in June Bar-B-Que Contest.
An avid outdoorsman, Steve enjoys fishing, hunting, and racing.
Steve Pate Jr.
Funeral Assistant
Steve grew up in Troy, Illinois, and graduated from Triad High School in 1980. In November 1981, he married Becky Seipp, and together they made their home in Saint Jacob, Illinois.
A lifelong carpenter, Steve owned and operated Pate's Kitchen & Bath until October 2013, when he joined his son, Steven Pate, at the funeral home, assisting with services while also overseeing building maintenance and lawn care.
Steve has been actively involved in the Saint Jacob community, serving on the Volunteer Fire Department, participating in the Sons of the American Legion, and helping organize the highly successful Jakey in June Bar-B-Que Contest.
An avid outdoorsman, Steve enjoys fishing, hunting, and racing.
Becky Pate
Office Manager
Becky grew up in O'Fallon, Illinois, and graduated from O'Fallon Township High School in 1980. In November 1981, she married Steve Pate Jr., and they made their home in St. Jacob, Illinois.
Becky spent 33 years in the newspaper industry, serving in a variety of roles. She concluded her career as Credit and Collections Supervisor for advertising accounts at the Belleville News-Democrat in Belleville, Illinois.
Following her retirement from the newspaper industry, Becky and her husband, Steve, moved to Benton to assist their son, Steven Pate, at the funeral home, where she serves as Office Manager.
Becky has been active in her community, serving as a park commissioner on the St. Jacob Park Board and as a member of the St. Jacob Volunteer Fire Department Auxiliary.
In her free time, Becky enjoys reading, spending time outdoors, attending sporting events, and following auto racing.
Becky Pate
Office Manager
Becky grew up in O'Fallon, Illinois, and graduated from O'Fallon Township High School in 1980. In November 1981, she married Steve Pate Jr., and they made their home in St. Jacob, Illinois.
Becky spent 33 years in the newspaper industry, serving in a variety of roles. She concluded her career as Credit and Collections Supervisor for advertising accounts at the Belleville News-Democrat in Belleville, Illinois.
Following her retirement from the newspaper industry, Becky and her husband, Steve, moved to Benton to assist their son, Steven Pate, at the funeral home, where she serves as Office Manager.
Becky has been active in her community, serving as a park commissioner on the St. Jacob Park Board and as a member of the St. Jacob Volunteer Fire Department Auxiliary.
In her free time, Becky enjoys reading, spending time outdoors, attending sporting events, and following auto racing.
