Obituary of Joe Merritt Cates

Joe Merritt Cates, 72, passed away Sunday, March 12, 2017. Joe was born in Durham and raised in Hillsborough, NC. He was the son of the late Marion and Nellie Merritt Cates. He graduated from Orange High School in Hillsborough, NC. He was a U.S. Marine Corps veteran and served from 1963-1969. He enjoyed his career as a longtime commercial construction superintendent. Joe spent many years coaching and volunteering with the Hillsborough Youth Athletic Association. He was also an avid Duke fan. Joe is preceded in death by his wife and partner of 47 years, Sue Albright Cates. He is also preceded in death by two sisters Janet and Charlotte and one brother, Raymond. He is survived by his two sons: Phillip Ryan Cates and wife Tammy of Stanley, NC and Kevin Wade Cates and wife, Cynthia of Hillsborough, four grandchildren: Ryan, Evan, Carly, and Rylee, four brothers (Harry, Butch, Bill, Robert) and five sisters (Carol Jean, Hilda, Gwen, Jackie, Rhonda) as well as many nieces and nephews. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to New Sharon United Methodist Church, 1601 New Sharon Church Road, Hillsborough, NC 27278. The family will receive friends at Walker's Funeral Home of Hillsborough on Wednesday, March 15 from 6 - 8 pm. Funeral services will be held at New Sharon United Methodist Church in Hillsborough on Thursday, March 16 at 2pm, interment will follow in the church cemetery. Walker's Funeral Home of Hillsborough is honored to serve the Cates family.