John Rex Gates Obituary
We bid farewell to John Rex Gates in Bolivar, Tennessee, whose journey of life gracefully concluded on March 7, 2025 at the age of 84. John Rex touched countless lives with warmth and kindness, leaving behind cherished memories that will forever echo in hearts. Family and friends are welcome to leave their condolences on this memorial page and share them with the family.
He was predeceased by: his parents, John Samuel Gates and Maxine Wroten Gates; his daughter Sheri Rex Gates Field; and his brother Robert "Robin" Clark Gates. He is survived by: his wife Diane Deming Gates of Hickory Valley, TN; his children, Debbie Gates Riles (Britt), Shawn Woods (Jennie), Shannon Woods (Steve Walker) and Shea Woods (Angela "Tootie" Woods); his sister Sheila Gates Wheaton (John); his sister-in-law Mary Ann Gates of Leesburg, Georgia.; his grandchildren, Christie Riles Riner, Brad, Gloria Field, John Evans Field, Kristopher Woods, Lisa, Brandy Simons, Andy, Zach Woods and Shelby Woods; and his great grandchildren, Riles Riner, Catherine Riner, Reid Martin Riner and Addison Simons.
Memorial contributions in his name may be sent to the National Bird Dog Museum, Bird Dog Foundation, 505 Hwy. 57 W, Grand Junction, TN 38039 or the Shriner's Children's Hospital (https://donate.lovetotherescue.org.) The family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to the staff at Christian Care Center of Bolivar and Legacy Hospice of Selmer for their exceptional care, compassion and love during this difficult time.
