Deborah Ann Gates, age 69, of Batesville, Indiana, passed away peacefully on Saturday, November 2, 2024, at her home with her family by her side, due to complications from brain cancer. Born November 26, 1954, in Norfolk, Virginia, she is the daughter of Alfred and Anita (Nee: Davis) Roa. She married Paul Gates on September 10, 1977, in Cincinnati, Ohio.
Deborah was a member of the Holy Family Catholic Church. She started her career as a nurse prior to working in various administrative positions for Hill-Rom, Oldenburg Academy, and at the Sisters of St. Francis Convent in Oldenburg, Indiana, before retiring.
In addition to being a devoted wife and mother, Deb found great joy in the simple pleasures of life. She was a gifted crafter, pouring her creativity and love into projects that have become cherished keepsakes for her family and friends. She enjoyed a good book, always welcoming an interesting story when the mood struck. Above all, Deb treasured the time spent with her loved ones. Whether it was gathering with family or enjoying the company of dear friends, she was happiest surrounded by those she cared for most. Her greatest joy, however, was being a Mimi to her grandchildren. She delighted in the laughter and energy of them, and they brought her immeasurable pride and happiness.
She is survived by her husband Paul of Batesville; daughter Erin (Ted) Telles of Batesville; sons Adam (Lindsay) Gates of Covington, Kentucky and Alex (Jorden) Gates of Greenwood, Indiana; grandsons Grant, Owen, and Nolan Wanstrath, and granddaughters Quinn and Murphy Gates; sisters Cathy (Kevin) Driskell and Pam (Ken) Niehauser, both of Cincinnati, Ohio; brothers Dave (Susan) Roa of Lake Santee, Indiana, Dennis (Michelle) Roa of Harrison, Ohio, and Jim (Julie) Roa of Cincinnati, in-laws Steve Gates, Tim (Nancy J.) Gates, Karen Hartoin, and Mary (Mike) Antone, as well as many nieces, nephews, and other family. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her sisters-in-law Ceil Roa and Nancy A. Gates, and brother-in-law Mike Hartoin.
Calling is Thursday, November 14th, from 4 – 7 p.m., at the Weigel Funeral Home in Batesville. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 a.m., Friday, November 15th, at Holy Family Catholic Church in Oldenburg, with Fr. E.J. Stein, O.F.M. officiating. The burial will follow at the church cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to the Sisters of St. Francis of Oldenburg or the Batesville Parks Improvement Fund. For online condolences go to www.weigelfh.com.