John Thomas Cates

John Thomas (Tommy) Cates passed away Sunday, April 14, 2013 at St Vincent’s Hospital in Jacksonville, Florida at the age of 73, surrounded by his loving wife of 49 years, Mary Julia Shofner Cates. Also by his side was his daughter Michelle Cates Preuss and husband Jeffrey Preuss along with their children Jeffrey James Preuss, Jr. and Julia Elizabeth Preuss.

Tommy was born in Stevenson, Alabama and spent most of his life in the North Alabama area. He was the youngest of four children, he has one surviving sibling, Jimmy Cates of Chicago, Illinois. He and his wife retired to Jacksonville, FL three years ago to be closer to and spend additional time with their daughter and her family.

Tommy served our military with distinction as an Intelligence Specialist in El Paso, Texas. The majority of his career was spent in the insurance business. In recent years, he attended Oasis Church in Scottsboro, AL. After moving to Jacksonville, FL, he was affiliated with Grace Church of Avondale. He was a loving husband, father and grandfather, who was devoted to his faith and family and admired by all who had the pleasure of knowing him. John’s humble nature, kind spirit, and amazing sense of humor will be greatly missed.

A private family graveside service with military honors will be held on Thursday morning April 18th. The family will welcome family and friends from 12 Noon until 2 pm that afternoon at the Preuss family home.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in Tommy Cates name to: Grace Church of Avondale 3519 Herschel Street, Jacksonville, FL 32205.

Hardage-Giddens funeral Home 729 S. Edgewood Ave, Jacksonville has been entrusted with arrangements.

Messages of condolence may be left at www.hardagegiddensedgewood.com