Donald Ray Gates

Donald R. Gates, 97 of Cleveland passed away Friday, December 26, 2025 surrounded by his loving family. Mr. Gates was a farmer who loved to read his bible and was of the Baptist faith.

He is preceded in death by his wife, Edna Mae Gates; sons, Taylor Ray Gates and Richard Keith; daughter-in-law, Nancy Gates; and grandson Rodney Rymer.

Mr. Gates is survived by his daughter, Betty Rymer (Lige); ten grandchildren; 12 great grandchildren; a host of great-great grandchildren; two great-great-great grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will be held at 2 PM on Friday, January 2, 2026 in the chapel fo Poole Funeral Home; 3000 Ralph Buckner Blvd, Cleveland with Pastor Ray Cheatham and the Reverend Homer Roberts officiating. Interment will follow in Sunset Memorial Gardens.

The family will receive friends prior to the service from 12:00 -2:00 PM at the funeral home.

Poole Funeral Home & Cremation Services of Cleveland is honored to serve the family of Donald R. Gates.