Donna Faye Cates

Donna Faye Cates
October 21, 1956 – January 11, 2026
Donna Faye Cates, 69, of Waynesville, NC, passed away on January 11, 2026. Born on October 21, 1956, in Waynesville, NC. Donna lived a life with deep love for her family, a passion for God, and an endurance within her that made her a joy and light to everyone who knew her.
Donna was the beloved daughter of the late Betty Jean Norris Cates and Thomas Hyatt Cates. She was also preceded in death by her cherished grandmother, Faye Miller Norris. Her strong family roots and faith shaped the woman she became-caring, loving, and always ready with a story to tell (often with some exaggeration to make it more memorable).
She is lovingly remembered by her loving daughter and son-in-law, Kesha and Richard McClure, her granddaughters who were her pride and joy, Kayla McClure and Kyrstin Ward; and her grandson-in-law Josey Ward. Donna also leaves behind her sister Brenda Butler; brothers James Cates and Tranis Cates; as well as several nieces and nephews who brought joy to her life.
Donna's faith was the cornerstone of her existence. A proud Christian with an unwavering devotion to Jesus Christ, she found strength in her relationship with God through years of illness. She often said that God kept her here for a reason-and those who knew her would agree that she fulfilled that purpose. At the end, she was at peace with death and ready to go to her new heavenly home with Jesus, and so excited to see her loved ones who had gone before her. She worshipped faithfully at Old Pathways Baptist Church alongside her brother and sister and at Pleasant Balsam Missionary Baptist Church with her daughter's family. For many years, she served as the piano player at Free Methodist Church. A gifted musician, Donna had the rare talent of playing piano by ear. Her favorite songs to play were old country hymns.
Donna also had a passion for racing, especially when it involved cheering on close family friend Steve Caver at the track. With help from her brother James (affectionately known as "Flash") and son-in-law Richard, these outings became treasured memories. At home or in person, she never missed a NASCAR race if she could help it, her all time favorite driver being Mark Martin #6.
Her favorite and most expensive hobby was shopping, mostly at Belk, with long time friend, Betty Carver or her daughter and granddaughters. These times were precious memories filled with joy, laughter, and fun.
Donna Faye Cates will be remembered not only for the warmth of her smile, but for the way she made others feel seen, cared for, and loved. Her legacy lives on by all of those who knew and loved her. May Donna's memory bring comfort to all who knew her-and may we carry forward the light she so freely gave during her time on Earth.
All are welcome to A Celebration of Life that will be held on January 16, 2026, with Visitation starting at 1:00 PM and Service starting at 02:00 PM at Pleasant Balsam Missionary Baptist Church, 2362 Old Balsam Rd. Waynesville, NC 28786.
Smoky Mountain Cremations and Funeral Service of Maggie Valley, NC is caring for the family and the online register is available at www.smokymountaincremations.com.