In loving memory of our mother, Wanda Fay Gates, 88, of Lytle, who passed away on January 26, 2023. She was the devoted wife of Joel Coy Gates, Sr. and loving mother to Joel Coy Gates, Jr., Janet Lynn Yarbrough and Jill Fay Gates. She will be deeply missed by all who knew her.
Our mother was a kind, caring and giving person who always put the needs of her family before her own. She was a strong woman who faced every challenge in her life with courage and dignity. She was a source of inspiration to us all and we will carry her spirit and memory in our hearts for the rest of our lives.
Wanda was always there for her family helping us navigate through life. You would always find her in the stands cheering on her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren; cooking Sunday dinner, working in her beautiful garden or taking the kids for a day of swimming at the lake. Her faithfulness and loyalty to her family never wavered. She was a true role model who we will always look up to.
Born in Stonewall, Texas on October 12, 1934, she was preceded in death by her parents, Jesse Albert Holden and Effie Mae Andrews Holden; husband, Joel Coy Gates, Sr.; and siblings, Charles Ober Holden, John Lee Holden, Velva Mae Holden Naegelin, Jesse “Pete” Ancel Holden and Melvin James Holden.
She is survived by her sister, Effie Holden Hearn; children, Joel Coy Gates, Jr., Janet Lynn Yarbrough (Steven), Jill Fay Gates; grandchildren, Leigh Anne Watkins (Shawn), Jolinda Arroyo (Chris), Kristin Morris (Robert), Brooke Higgins (Ryan), Joe Allen Carter and Rebecca Tumlinson; as well as 7 great-grandchildren.
Funeral services will be held on Saturday February 4, 2023, at Primrose Funeral Services, 14822 Main Street, Lytle, Texas 78052.
Family visitation will start at 9 am and public visitation will start at 10 am, with the funeral service to follow beginning at 11am. The burial service will follow, immediately after, at the Lytle Masonic Cemetery.
Mom, you will always be in our hearts, and we will never forget you. We love you so very much. Rest in peace.
Anyone wishing to sign the online guestbook, share memories or issue condolences to the family, may do so at www.primrosefuneralservices.com
Arrangements under the direction of Primrose Funeral Services, 14822 Main Street, Lytle, Texas, 78052