Billy Bob Gates

SHREVEPORT, LA - At home, surrounded by his family, Billy Bob Gates passed away on October 22, 2022. He was blessed to have 77 years of a wonderful life with his loving family and many loyal friends.
He was preceded in death by his son, William Todd Gates; his parents, Melvin and Nora Gates; his infant brother, Doyce Gates; father and mother-in-law, William and Frances Nohse; sister-in-law, Rebecca Nohse; and niece, Melissa Lawrence.
He is survived by his wife of 55 years, Charlotte Nohse Gates; his daughter, Allison Gates Barrett and husband, Ross Barrett; his granddaughters, Grace Thaxton Barrett, Georgia Todd Barrett, Garland Gates Barrett and Gillian Ross Barrett; his sisters-in-law, Debra Friar and Marsha Pugh; and many close cousins and wonderful friends.
Bill was born on November 26, 1944, in Prescott, Arkansas, but grew up in the small town of Gurdon, 15 miles away. He taught himself to drive at age 12 and was driving his father's log trucks by age 15. Time spent at the family farm, fishing and swimming in the river, Sundays at his grandmothers with his many cousins, were fond childhood memories that he loved to share. He graduated from Gurdon High School in 1962 and attended Henderson State College. Upon his marriage to Charlotte 1967 he moved to Shreveport and completed his degree at Centenary College where he graduated in 1969 with a bachelor's degree in business.
After graduation he entered the family business, Centenary Hardware, with his father-in-law, William Nohse. There he worked for 44 years sharing his world of knowledge and many skills to all and making lasting friendships. He enjoyed helping others in his kind, friendly manner and was a mentor to many. Upon retirement in 2013, he enjoyed spending time with family and friends, traveling and being part of the outreach ministry at Trinity Heights Baptist Church.
Funeral services will be held Wednesday, October 26, 2022, at Trinity Heights Baptist Church. Visitation will be at 10 AM with services to follow at 11 AM. A private graveside service will be afterwards.
Honoring Bill as pallbearers will be Jimmy Wright, Matthew Friar, Robson Cupples, Donnie Brown, Steve Rogers and Randy Allums. Serving as honorary pallbearers will be Sherman Wynn, Norman Graham, George Beck, Ronnie Vailes, Billy Gates, Winfred Weldon, Alton Allen, Jerry Langley, Larry Plyler, Gary Plyler, Tom Lawhon, Bill McCoglin, and members of Mike Ryan's Sunday school class at Trinity Heights Baptist Church.
The family is sincerely grateful to the many prayerful friends who continue to give comfort and support during this time. To Dr. Jimmy Smith, Dr. Ronnie Byrd, Dr. Robert Barrett and Dr. Roy Flenniken, we are forever thankful for your special friendship and compassion.
Memorials may be made to Trinity Heights Baptist Church 3820 Old Mooringsport Road Shreveport, LA 71107 or to the charity of your choice.
Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord from now on. "Yes," says the Spirit, they will rest from their labor, for their deeds will follow them. Revelation 14:13
"But seek first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness, and all these things shall be added unto you." Matthew 6:33