Sherry Vernelle Cates Obituary
We announce the death of Sherry Vernelle Cates (Odessa, Texas), born in Sweetwater, Texas, who passed away on October 9, 2026, at the age of 89. Sherry will be remembered by family members, friends, and others whose lives were connected in meaningful ways. Family and friends are welcome to leave their condolences on this memorial page and share them with the family.
She was predeceased by: her parents, Rufus Edwin Bankhead and Vertice Lee Rogers Bankhead; her brother Royce Bankhead; and her husband A. V. Cates. She is survived by: her brother Doug Bankhead (Sandy) of Refugio, Texas; her sons, Carl Cates (Kristy) of Odessa, Texas, Marc Cates (Laura) of Scurry, Texas and Eric Cates of Odessa, Texas; and her grandchildren, Bethany, Caleb, Aubrey, Kitra and Nathaniel. She is also survived by five great-grandchildren.
A memorial service will be held on Saturday, October 24th 2026 at 2:00 PM at the Sherwood Church of Christ (4900 N Dixie Blvd, Odessa, TX 79762).
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made by donating to Odessa Christian School, or to the Cates Family Scholarship through The Community Foundation of West Texas in Lubbock, Texas.
