Richard Gates

Richard Lamar Gates, 62, of Fulton, passed away Monday, July 25, 2022, at Covenant Care Hospice at Sacred Heart in Pensacola. He was born in Pine Hill on Monday, November 23, 1959, and had been a truck driver, carpenter and professional guitarist. He loved spending time with his grandchildren and his beloved dogs. He was an avid fan of The University of Alabama football program and enjoyed riding motorcycles, playing softball and watching televangelist, Jimmy Swaggart.
He was preceded in death by his parents, David L. "Bud" Gates, Shelby Jean Smith Gates; grandson, Jacob Hunter Ready and siblings Deborah Anderson and Joey Gates.
He is survived by his children, Debbie (Jay Bright) Cumlander, Tara (Todd) Ready, Brandon (Melissa) Gates, Kortney Gates, Joey Barnes, Jonathan Barnes; brother, Bruce Gates; fifteen grandchildren; one great-granddaughter and numerous other relatives and friends.
A graveside service will be conducted at 2 p.m. on Friday, July 29, 2022, at Choctaw Corner Cemetery in Thomasville with the Rev. Renea Henderson officiating and Lathan Funeral Home directing.
Pallbearers will be Randy Alford, Joey Barnes, James Bender, Tyeson Cumlander, Bryce Gates, Tucker Phillips and Lane Ready.
Condolences may be offered at www.lathanfuneralhome.com.