Mildred Council Gates

GATES, Mildred "Mickey" C., of Richmond, Va., departed this life on August 7, 2018, after living a full and rewarding life for 91 years. She was born June 12, 1927, in Durham, N.C. and was the wife of the late Wade Elmo Gates for 61 years. They resided in Durham until 1969 when they moved to Richmond, Va., where Mickey devoted her life to raising their family. She was preceded in death by her parents, Gertrude Southern and Jack Council; and four sisters. Mickey is survived by her daughters, Linda Guinn (Ed) of Johnson City, Tenn., Kathy Schomo (Rick) of Wilmington, N.C.; four grandchildren, Callie Armstrong (David), Ashley Davis (Andrew), Erica Sickles (Kyle), Brent Schomo; and six great-grandchildren, Joshua and Jenna Armstrong, Caleb and Rachel Davis, Madison and Emma Sickles. Mickey's greatest passion in life was her family, especially her grandchildren, where "Grandma" was their favorite playmate and number one sports fan. She was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, friend, and blessed so many others with her strong faith, selfless spirit, and commitment to helping those in need. She was an active member of Welborne United Methodist Church for over 45 years, where she served as a Stephen Minister, Sunday school teacher, and CARITAS volunteer, demonstrating her endless compassion to others. Residing at Lakewood since 2003, she enjoyed countless social activities with her friends, touching their lives with her cheerfulness, optimism, and endless praise of the dedicated and loving staff. A memorial service will be held at Welborne United Methodist Church Tuesday, August 14, at 11 a.m. In lieu of flowers, expressions of love may be given in her memory to Welborne United Methodist Church, 920 Maybeury Dr., Henrico, Va. 23229.