James Lawrence Gates

Black Creek - James “Jimmy” L. Gates, 85, went home to be with his Lord and Savior and reunited with the love of his life, our Mama, Thursday October 5^th, 2023.

Jimmy was best known for his love of working on Volkswagens, as owner of Jimmy Gates Volkswagen Repair in Wilson and later in Black Creek for 48 years. He was a staple of the Black Creek Community, helping and serving his neighbors in any capacity. He will be dearly missed by many.

Jimmy is survived by his loving family who stood by his side, his daughter, Beth Gates Langley (Keith) of Rocky Mount; sons, Larry Gates (Rhonda) of Wilson, Chris Gates (friend, Teresa), and Greg Gates (Kelly) all of Black Creek; twelve grandchildren; thirteen great grandchildren; sister, Sue Eason and a host of nieces and nephews.

He is preceded in death by his wife of 57 years, Glenda Pike Gates; parents, Joel E.  Gates and Carlyne Hill Gates Grady; stepfather, Zack Grady; sisters, Jean Batten, Betty Barfield, Brenda Hobgood, and his brothers, Frank Gates, Robert Gates and Palmer Grady.

The Gates Family will receive extended family and friends Saturday October 7^th, 2023, from 1 p.m.- 4 p.m. at the home.

Children have always held a special place in our Daddy’s heart. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Free Will Baptist Children’s Home of Middlesex, P.O. Box 249 Middlesex, North Carolina 27557.

Condolences directed to Joyner’s Funeral Home and Crematory at www.joyners.net.