Loretta Darlene Gates

Loretta had 9 siblings: Bill Perkins, Irene Smith, Jean Surrette, and is survived by Paul Perkins, Rita Sanders, Ginger Dollinger, Sissy Wareham, Dinah Cooper and Bill Fisher. She also had two children Michael Perkins and Mikki Huxtable, 8 grandchildren and 19 great grandchildren.

In her younger days she worked as a waitress, and then she went to work for Ford Motor Company. She retired from Ford motor company in 2007 after 27 years. She was the first woman security guard in the company, and while working at Ford she met and shook hands with President Ronald Reagan. Thereafter she was in FMC magazine as the unidentified woman in the picture with the President. She was also the President of the United Plant Guard Workers Union.

Loretta was a very hard worker and during her time at Ford she also owned Loretta’s Diner in Lawson and Bisquit-sal Crafts in Claycomo. Yet, in her free time she managed to find time to visit Swap and Shops and garage sales. Loretta also loved to dance and visit with family whenever possible. She had many stories to share and family meant the world to her. Loretta was independent and worked hard her whole life. She was a very loving and caring person - had a hug and smile for everybody and could find beauty in the smallest things, even a falling down old barn.

Buckle your seat belt - ride safe - she is now in her final home looking for new garage sales.

Loretta was loved by many and will never be forgotten.