Mary Iva Gates

Mary Iva Gates, 77, of Jacksonville passed away peacefully in Ponte Vedra on June 27th after a long illness. She was a 1959 graduate (salutatorian) of Voorheesville High School in Voorheesville NY. She then went on to earn a Bachelor's Degree in Education (with honors). In 1972 she earned her Masters Degree in Library Science from State University of New York at Albany and began her life long career in libraries. During her 30 year career Mary was instrumental in instituting many innovations in school systems in the Philadelphia area, and built two systems from the ground up. Her final project prior to retirement was the creation of an electronic tracking system for books within the Bishop Kenny High-School. Mary took great pride in her work for the 'Project Leap Program' in Philadelphia, in which she helped to create a safe place for inner-city children. She also helped countless students develop an interest in and love of books, igniting their imaginations along the way.

Mary is predeceased by her parents, George and Rena (de Vos) Gates, and sister-in-law Amelie Gates. She is survived by children David Blenker and wife Ruth, Chris Blenker and wife Becki; grandchildren Jenna, Nicholas, Andrew, and Ashley; brother George Gates and sister Judith MacDonald; niece and nephews Priscilla, James, Scott, and Stephen.

Mary’s family would like to thank the caregivers from Community Hospice and Arbor Terrace Ponte Vedra for their exceptional care. As a team, they ensured that Mary was comfortable and never alone.

Memorial Mass will be held at 10:00 am on Saturday, July 28, 2018 in Christ the King Parish 742 Arlington Rd N. Jacksonville, FL 32211. Followed by inurnment in Chapel Hills Memory Gardens, 850 St. Johns Bluff Rd. N. Jacksonville, FL 32225 904-641-9755.