Reverend Wiley Eugene “Gene” Gates

Reverend Wiley Eugene “Gene” Gates, 80, of Moravian Falls, left this earthly home to go to his heavenly home on Sunday, February 6, 2022, at Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist of Wilkes Medical Center.

He was born August 23, 1941, in Nitro, West Virginia to the late Wylie and Elsie Gates.

Including his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, Jerry Gates.

He is survived by his wife, Lillie Joann Gates; three sons, Wiley Gates (Patti) and David Gates, of Maryland, and Willy Gates of North Carolina; two daughters, Melody “Punky” Gates of Virginia; Faith Koller (Dave) of North Carolina; eight grandchildren, Lillie, Brandi, Kyli, Lauren, Julie, Brian, Kasey, and Taylor; seven great-grandchildren, Jocelin, Serenity, Amina, Beckett, Autumn, Elliott and Vincent; and four brothers, Nelson Gates (Irene), Roger Gates, Stevie Gates, and Benny Gates (Becky).

He loved going to church and talking to people. He never met a stranger and was always ready and willing to talk to whoever he met about his Jesus.

He also enjoyed going to the Ruby Pardue Blackburn Adult daycare in Wilkesboro, the days they had Bible study were his favorites. He thought it was something that they called him “Gene”.

Services for Rev. Gates will be held at a later date.

The family would like to express their thanks to the third-floor nurses and Dr. Pinkerton who took good care of Rev. Gates and his family.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be sent to 707 Gilreath Rd., Moravian Falls, NC 28654; or 302 Douglas Street, Marion, VA 24354.

Condolences may be sent to www.adamsfunerals.com.

Adams Funeral Home and Cremation Services is honored to be serving the family of Rev. Wiley Gates.