Mrs. Gates was born January 6, 1927, recorded as January 7, 1927, in Columbia, SC and passed away peacefully at home October 14, 2020. She was the daughter of the late Beech and Ellen Davis.
She is survived by one sister, Marjorie Padgett, and children, Peggy Brown, Dorothy “Dottie” (Gordon) Jones, David (Christy) Gates, Betty (Wes) Stillinger, Nancy Owen; eleven grandchildren, twenty great-grandchildren, and three great-great-grandchildren. She is predeceased by her husband of 55 years, Herman Edward “Pee Wee” Gates; brothers, Dan Livingston, Henry B. Davis, and Raleigh T. Davis; sister, Valerie Pierce, and many cherished friends.
Mrs. Gates graduated from University High School and became a Registered Nurse, caring for patients at SC Baptist Hospital.
Mrs. Gates was a godly woman who touched many lives. She spent much time in prayer and Bible study. She was an active member of Denny Terrace Baptist Church for many years and Dutch Fork Baptist Church for the last 48 years.
Mrs. Gates cared deeply for her family and friends. She was devoted to her husband and loved him dearly. She taught her children to love and follow Jesus and to love others. She was admired as a godly example of a committed, loving wife and dedicated, compassionate mother. She enjoyed reading books, quilting, fishing, working crossword puzzles, singing hymns, and spending time with her family and friends. Mrs. Gates was sincerely loved.
The family expresses their deepest gratitude to Joanie Hood and Kathy Roland for their faithful support and friendship in providing their loving care to Mrs. Gates over the last several years. They are also appreciative of the services of Amedisys Hospice.
Pallbearers are grandsons, Edward Watson, Stephen Jones, Christopher Jones, James Gates, Tyler Stillinger and cousins, Nathan Rizer and Adam Rizer. Honorary Pallbearers are Doug French and Michael French.
The service can be accessed via livestream on the Dutch Fork Baptist Facebook page and Caughman-Harman Funeral Home, Lexington Chapel’s Facebook page.
Memorials may be made to Dutch Fork Baptist Church or Heritage Christian Academy in Lexington, SC.
