Mike Slater

Charles "Mike" Slater, age 71, of Tennessee Colony, passed away late Thursday morning, July 16, 2026 at Dallas Regional Medical Center in Mesquite.

A rosary will be recited and Mass of Christian Burial celebrated 10:00 a.m. Wednesday, July 22, 2026 at Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary Catholic Church in Penelope, with Rev. Thomas Jones as celebrant. Burial will follow at St. Joseph's Cemetery, with honors by the Texas Department of Corrections. The family will receive visitors from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. Tuesday at Aderhold Funeral Home.

Mike was born on January 8, 1955, in Corsicana, the son of O'Neal and Eddie Pearl (Havis) Slater. A proud graduate of Hubbard High School in 1973 and later Trinity Valley Community College, where he earned an associate degree in business. Mike embarked on a remarkable 50-year career as a Correctional Officer at the Texas Department of Criminal Justice Center in Tennessee Colony. His unwavering commitment to his role in the prison system showcased his character and strong sense of duty, earning him the respect and admiration of many. On November 20, 1976, Mike united in marriage with the love of his life, Tomasa Moreno, in Penelope. Together, they built a home filled with love and laughter. Mike found immense joy in spending time with his family, cherishing the moments he shared with his grandchildren. He enjoyed polka dancing, tending to his cows, and caring for his cat. His warm spirit and hearty laughter will be profoundly missed by all who knew him.

Mike is preceded in death by his parents and and a brother, Larry Slater.

Survivors include his beloved wife of 49 years, Tomasa Slater of Tennessee Colony; his children, Michael Slater of Penelope, James Slater and wife Rosie of Hewitt, and Desiree Eastham and husband Lee of Gatesville; his grandchildren, Desirae, Anthony, and Wyatt; a brother, Terry; sisters, Theresa and Donna; and many nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.

Pallbearers are Jerrold Reece, Rodney Adams, David Eastham, Scott Taylor, Gerald Wilson, and Ron Singleton.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Penelope Volunteer Fire Department or St. Joseph Cemetery.