Johnny Franklin Gates

John Franklin Gates passed away on August 8, 2024, in Orange Park, FL, surrounded by his wife and children. He was born on September 24, 1937, in Winnfield, LA, to the late Harvey Earnest Gates and Lydia Crain.

John was a longtime member of the First Baptist Church of Orange Park, where he served as Deacon and taught Sunday School (Bible Study) for many years. He was an avid golfer, playing weekly with a group of 12-16 men who loved to gather, pray, play, fellowship and eating hot dogs. He volunteered at the Emergency Room at Orange Park Medical Center for many years and with the Florida Disaster Relief Team.

He was predeceased by his parents, Harvey and Lydia Gates; brother, Lamar Gates (Arlene); sister, Maxine Dickerson (Jim); nephew, Steve Dickerson and a great niece, Daye Dickerson Alexander.

John is survived by his loving wife of 64 years, Bert; children, John Gates, Jr (Kelly) and Jane Long (Don); grandchildren, Shauna Wright (Bryan), John Gates, III (Courtney), Brian Long, (Brittney), Jenny Gates, Gary Long, Danielle Green (James) and Jessica Morris (Tim); great-grandchildren, Dallas, Weston, Avery, Georgia, Olivia, John IV, Amelia, Jackson, Adalyn, Letty, Raylee, Emberly, Tim Jr. and Gracie; nephew, Craig Dickerson; nieces, Jan Gates Pearce and Millie Gates Calhoun and many close friends who have become family.

A private family service will be held at Jacksonville National Cemetery in September.

Memorial gifts may be made to First Baptist Church of Orange Park, 1140 Kingsley Avenue, Orange Park, FL 32073.

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