Fate was born January 15, 1914 to James A. Gladson, Sr. and Penny Jenkins Gladson. He lived in Jones, Duplin, and Lenoir Counties. He was one of ten children, five boys and five girls. Four of the boys served in the armed services. Fate served in Europe as a truck driver. Among other medals, he was awarded two Bronze Stars. Fate died May 10, 1966. He is honored by Yvonne Sanderson, Johnnie Gladson, Howard Gladson and Helen Wiggins.