Donald Abner Cates

Donald Abner Cates, 85, of Henderson passed away peacefully at Lucy Smith King Care Center on Tuesday, March 14, 2023 after an extended illness.

Donald graduated from Henderson County High School where he was the first FFA President, class of 1955. In 1960, Donald enlisted in the United States Army Reserves and served for six years. He enjoyed a 55 year long career in the oil and gas industry working for Dowell Company as well as working as an independent oil consultant.

Donald loved farming and continued the Cates family legacy of farming for many years. He was a member of Chapel Hill United Methodist Church.

Donald was preceded in death by his parents Abner B. Cates, Jr. and Alva Bailey Cates; one sister Janice Cates Johnston.

Survivors include his wife of 30 years Marsha Cates; one son Paul Cammon Cates (Drina); one daughter Elizabeth Cates Richardson (James); one step-daughter Lori A. Priest (Neal); one sister Ann Tanner; two grandchildren River and Kally Priest; nieces and nephews.

Services will be noon Saturday March 18, 2023 at Tomblinson Funeral Home Henderson Chapel with Pastor Rick Nollmann and Bro. Dylan Zahn officiating. Visitation will be Saturday 9:00 AM until service time at the funeral home.

Burial will be in Fernwood Cemetery.

Expressions of sympathy may take the form of contributions to Chapel Hill United Methodist Church or St. Anthony’s Hospice.

Pallbearers will be John Pruitt, Ab Cates, James Richardson, River Priest, Chris Clayton, Judd Royster.