Jack Thomas Cates

Jack Thomas Cates, age 72 of Fort Smith, AR, passed away November 15, 2018. He was born June 21, 1946 to David and Beatrice Cates. He was the owner of Jack Cates Construction and retired from the State Military Department of Arkansas and Pic-N-Tote Stores.

Jack was a loving husband for almost 50 years, a devoted father to (in the words of Grandma Irene) four “precious sons” and the world’s proudest PopPop. His greatest pleasure was spending time with family and friends and almost always knew someone wherever he went. As a teenager and Charter member, he helped pour the foundation for Wesley United Methodist Church, which was a support to him throughout his whole life as a Christian.

He was preceded in death by his parents; in-laws Gus and Irene Perry; sisters Glenda Cates and Karen Hilbun, and brother-in-law Mark Perry.

He is survived by his beloved wife Gloria, his four sons, twins Justin Cates (Amy) of Fort Smith and Jeremy Cates (Brenda) of Siloam Springs, Ben Cates (Misty) of Barling and Grant Cates of Fayetteville; grandchildren Jeremy Tyler, Reed, Parker, William, and Allison Cates; sister, Sandra Cates of Greenwood; brothers, Albert Cates (Vicki) of Lavaca, Bobby Cates of Auburn, GA, Roger Cates (Linda) of Central City, and Anthony Cates (Paula) of Greenwood; brother-in-law Gus Perry III (Margaret) of Sallisaw, OK and numerous special nieces, nephews and dear friends.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Monday, November 19 at Wesley United Methodist Church from 5:30-7:30 p.m. Services are under the direction of Edwards Funeral Home.

In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to the Children’s Emergency Shelter, 3015 South 14th Street, Fort Smith, AR 72901.

To sign an online guestbook, visit www.edwardsfuneralhome.com .