MARY E. CATES

06/16/56 - 06/15/24

CATES

Mary Elizabeth Cates, a resident of Helotes, Texas, passed away on June 15, 2024, at the age of 67. She was born on June 16, 1956, in Seoul, South Korea. Mary was adopted at the age of 9 by the Raymond family in San Francisco, California later moving to Killeen and Corsicana, Texas, where she lived throughout her childhood and early adulthood.

Mary demonstrated her resilience by overcoming numerous obstacles during her teenage years and graduated from Corsicana High School in 1975. Following graduation, she pursued a career in cosmetology, excelling in the field for over 24 years. Her exceptional skill and dedication garnered her a loyal clientele and established her as a master of her trade.

In 1977, Mary married Ricky Hood, and in 1981, she married Adam Cates, and later, in 1997, she married Don Motsenbocker of McKinney, Texas. Mary's life revolved around her family; she worked tirelessly to provide for her sons, ensuring they had everything they needed. She was known for always trying to help others, even during the times when she herself did not have much to give. Her hobbies included cooking for her loved ones, dancing, and exploring new destinations through travel.

Mary was a devoted member of First McKinney Baptist Church, where her faith was a cornerstone of her life. She had a beautiful smile and infectious laugh that could brighten anyone's day. She will be remembered fondly as a loving mother, a doting grandmother, a cherished sister, and supportive friend. Her absence will be deeply felt by all who had the privilege of knowing and loving her. Mary leaves behind a legacy of perseverance, love, hard work, and devotion to family.

Mary is survived by her sons, Shawn Cates and Troy Cates of McKinney, Texas; grandchildren, Kai Cates, Kaden Cates, Addison Mitchell, Karsen Cates, and Sol Cates; brother, Kwan Ho Choi of Carrollton, Texas; sister, Rosemaria Raymond of Cornelius, Oregon; first husband, Ricky Hood; numerous family members in the U.S. as well as South Korea; and other loving friends.

She was preceded in death by her second husband, Adam Cates; third husband, Donald Motsenbocker; sister, Tina Maria Raymond; and parents.

A funeral service was held on Monday, July 1, 2024 at 2:00 p.m. at Turrentine-Jackson- Morrow Funeral home, located at 2525 Central Expressway North, Allen, Texas 75013. The service was also live streamed at TJMfuneral.com on Mary's obituary page by clicking on the celebration link and will be available for viewing after the service. Following the service, Mary was laid to rest at Restland Cemetery, located at 13005 Greenville Avenue, Dallas, Texas 75243.

The family received friends during a visitation on Sunday evening, June 30, 2024, from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. at the funeral home