Joyce Lee "Doc" Tate Nevaquaya, a member of the Comanche Nation, was born July 3rd, 1932 in Apache, Oklahoma. Doc Tate was named after family Physician Dr. C.W. Joyce and was subsequently given the nickname of "Doc." He and his wife Charlotte had nine children, four daughters and five sons, all of whom are accomplished dancers and flutists. First and foremost, he took great pride, which he passed onto his children and grandchildren. Doc tate touched the world through his music, paintings, dance performances, lectures, and prayers. As an indication of his reputation, newspapers and television stations from around the world reported on his death and the legacy he left for all to share and embrace.

Doc Tate was a self-taught artist, using the two dimensional style of painting. He used the Oklahoma landscape which the Comanches have called home for hundreds of years. Doc Tate had a lifelong interest in preserving the traditions and history of his people.