Erwin Gates

Erwin Gates was born to the late Robert and Melba Gates on April 16, 1953 in Oxford, MS. He was the 10th of 13 siblings. He accepted Christ at an early age and was baptized and became a member of North Hopewell Missionary Baptist Church.

He received his education from Oxford city schools and was a member of OHS’s class of 1972. He chose a career in environmental service with the University of Mississippi.

Erwin was a fun and loving man and was known for always being there to help others in their times of need. He enjoyed fishing and spending time with his dear friend, brother, and cousin James “Sonny” McGhee. They called themselves the “Ride-or-Dies” and that he was, a Ride or Die, always there when someone called on him.

On September 11, 2020, Erwin departed his earthly life. He is preceded in death by his parents, three sisters, and four brothers.

He leaves to cherish his memories, a special friend, Rosemary Bryson of Taylor, MS, five children, Shajuan (Joshua) Barry, Elaina (Jody) Lewis both of Abbeville, MS, Shamara Hudson of Jackson, MS, Marisha Buford of Bartlett, TN, and Erwin Gates of Pontotoc, MS; ten grandchildren, 3 great grandchildren; five siblings, Dorothy Smith of Oxford, MS, Flossie (Charles) Ragland of Water Valley, MS, Shirley Mitchell of Taylor, MS, Alma Higginbottom and Dwain Gates of Abbeville, MS, and a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.