Earl had been the owner and operator of A Better Choice Tire Stores in Morristown and Jefferson City for over 25 years.
He was preceded in death by his parents: Perry and Pauline Cates; son: Brian Roach and brothers: Ranesom and Jackie Cates.
He is survived by his loving wife of 45 years, Shirley Turner Cates; daughters: Sharon (Marty) Sandefur and Stacy (Melissa) Roach. Grandchildren: Ashley (Jesse) Piburn, Zachary Roach, Kynzie (Clint) Stephens, Ty (Tara) Sandefur and Steven (Abigail) McWan. Great grandchildren: Georgia and Emma Piburn, Cilas Sandefur, Evie, Rowan and Piper Stephens and Evelyn and Weston McWan. Sister: Flora Mae Dill along with many nieces and nephews.
Family and friends will gather on Friday, July 10, 2026 at 1:00 PM in Hamblen Memory Gardens for graveside services.
