Willie Gates

CHAPEL HILL - Willie Andrew Gates Jr., passed away on April 2nd, 2015 at the age of 60. He is preceded in death by his parents, Bill and Helen Gates, and a brother, Harold Gates. He was known to people in the community as Billy, and to friends and family as "Babo," a name given to him by his older brother. Billy was a kind, gentle, and loving husband to his wife Donna of 33 years. He was an amazing father to his three children Andrea, Drew, and Emily Gates and cherished his three month old grandson, Elijah Gates. Billy worked for many years as a commercial superintendent, after working only a short time as a carpenter. His heart and soul went into every project, which is evident in many buildings throughout the Triangle. He is survived by his brother, Ronnie Gates and wife Shirley; sister, Cindy Hicks and husband David; and many wonderful nieces and nephews that meant so much to him. He will truly be missed by his family, friends, and the Chapel Hill community. A memorial service will be held Thursday, April 9th at 2:00pm at Bethel Baptist Church in Chapel Hill, NC. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial contributions be made to The Lupus Foundation of America, www.lupus.org.