Joyce Ann Cates

On Tuesday, September 30, 2025, at Union County Health and Rehabilitation Center, our beloved sister in Christ, Joyce Ann Veach Cates, peacefully entered into her Heavenly Home at the age of 75. Per her wishes, she will be cremated, and no formal services are planned at this time. The family encourages all who knew and loved her to continue cherishing the many sweet memories shared with this wonderful lady, whose legacy of kindness will live on in the hearts she touched. Born on February 20, 1950, in Texas, Ms. Joyce was educated in the Texas Public School System, later earning her bachelor's degree and faithfully serving as a Registered Nurse in the health industry. Her career reflected her selfless heart, as she cared for the needs of others with patience, compassion, and dignity. In addition to her nursing, she worked alongside her family for many years in their business, Tri State Security, based out of Grand Prairie, Texas. A devoted Christian, Ms. Joyce lived a simple life that reflected her gentle nature. She was a wonderful homemaker, an extraordinary mother, and a talented cook whose meals were filled with love. Her gifted hands created many blessings through sewing and crocheting, leaving behind keepsakes that her loved ones will forever treasure. In her later years, she made her home at Union County Health and Rehabilitation Center, where she was cared for with compassion. Though her circle of close family has grown smaller through the years, she was dearly loved by those around her and will be greatly missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her. Her life, though simple, was a testimony of love-for her family, her friends, and her Lord. May she rest in the eternal peace she so richly deserves. "Blessed are the pure in heart: for they shall see God." – Matthew 5:8 Memories will continue to be cherished by one daughter, Bobbie Jean Gonzales (Dario), two brothers, Jesse Mark Anthony Cates (Tosha), and Jerry McKay (Irene), five grandchildren, Robert Cates, Serena Pearson, Hunter Cates, Lauren Cates, and Paige Alfaro, and two great grandchildren, Ethan and Aiden Cates, along with her friends at the New Albany Health and Rehab, cousins, and extended family. In addition to her parents, Ms. Joyce in also preceded in death by two sons, Andre Cates and Michael Veach. Ripley Funeral Home invites you to share memories with Ms. Joyce's family. To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Joyce Ann Veach Cates, please visit our floral store.