Obituary

If anyone comes looking for George Gates, Jr, just tell them he’s gone to his next assignment, building the kingdom of God. Our beloved father left this world for his new heavenly destination on July 18, 2024, after a brave battle with cancer.

George was born on November 20, 1951, and throughout his life, he exemplified kindness and goodness, setting an example for everyone around him. He had a profound love for knowing God, studying, writing books, and teaching others about God. He was a talented drummer and involved musically in contemporary gospel groups and churches most of his life. One of his favorite things to do was to be in nature and talk about how the Glory of God can be seen all around us.

He absolutely loved people and making new friends. He never met a stranger. He was a father, brother, friend, mentor, and counselor to many all over the world. He has touched many people worldwide and will be truly missed.

George graduated from George Washington High School, attended Marshall University, and was a Graduate of the University of Phoenix. For many years, he also worked at Dupont Plant in Belle, WV.

George A. Gates, Jr. was the son of George A. Gates and Ruth Lee Gates, who predeceased him. He was also predeceased by his brother, Robert Lee Gates.

He is survived by his daughters, Victoria Rae Gates Combest (Matthew) of Atlanta, GA, and Andrea Lael Gates of Charleston, WV; grandson, Tyrone (aka Tres) Bing Harrison, III of Charleston, WV; sister, Alice Adel Gates McVey of Virginia; niece, Traci Nicole McVey of Virginia; his aunts, Charlotte Short (Dan) and Carolyn Keller (Spunky) and their respective families, and the mother of his children, Sherry McBrayer of Charleston, WV.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Water Project in Africa. Information is below.

A service to celebrate George’s life will be held from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m. on Saturday, July 27, 2024, at Barlow Bonsall Funeral Home, with a formal gathering to begin at 2:00 p.m. Refreshments will be served.

Condolences may be sent to his family at www.barlowbonsall.com .

Barlow Bonsall Funeral Home has been entrusted with arrangements.

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Water Project & words from Bill Gardner, whom he loved.

In honor of my good friend George A. Gates Jr. in Kenya, east Africa, Saturday night there will be a great feast and celebration of George’s life, at the home and church of Joshua Nabuko for his family and friends.

If you would like to spread some love to Kenya and Joshua. You can send him much needed help threw Western union to: Joshua Nabuko, PO Box 143-50102, Mamias, Kenya, then send him the code number to his e-mail, Joshuanabuko44@gmail.com .

Money goes a lot further in Africa than here. It took less than $10,000 to dig the well. A month or so later, Joshua Nabuko called me in the middle of the night. I asked what’s wrong? He said nothing I’m happy. He said i want you to know not one person has died in the community since we have the new well. I want you to know you and George are saving lives. And most of all its bringing more people to my church and to Jesus. That humbled this boy. The money we spend on a family night out here will feed his family of 16 for a month. (3 of his children and his 11 orphans) water is life.

This project is a lot of what kept George going I’m sure he would very much appreciate and help you could give his friend Pastor Joshua.

You may view photos of the Water Project by clicking on “Gallery.”