Obituary of Maria Gates
Maria Gates, 77, of Morgan Ridge, Fairmont, passed away peacefully on Monday, January 15, 2024 at her home surrounded by her loving family. She was born on October 3, 1946 in Fairmont, a daughter of the late Benigno A. and Consuelo Jacques Martinez. In 2006, she was preceded in death by her loving husband of 42 years, Barry “Bunny” Bunner Gates.
Maria was a member of Gateway United Methodist Church and a proud 1965 graduate from East Fairmont High School. She was also an active member of the Bunner Ridge CEO’s and Garden Club. Maria was passionate about her gardening and yardwork. She took great pride in everything she did, including the upkeep of her home and property. She enjoyed being a member of the travel club and baking, where she was known for her delicious pie crust, cookie recipes, and especially her Christmas cookie selection. While Maria enjoyed these activities, she found her greatest joy in spending time with her family and enjoying large family gatherings.
Maria will be deeply missed by her three daughters, Christina Miller and her husband Ty of Fairmont, Tonya Wood and her husband Robert of Fairmont, and Amanda Gates of Maine. She is also survived by her four grandchildren, Tressa Wood-Deavers and her husband Joseph, Hunter Wood, Tysa Miller-Morris and her husband Christopher, and Kyra Miller.
Memorial contributions may be made in Maria’s memory to the Marion County Humane Society, 2731 Locust Ave, Fairmont, WV 26554 or to the Soup Opera, 425 Quincy St, Fairmont, WV 26554.
The family would like to thank the WV Home Health nurse, Marissa, as well as the WV Hospice nurse, Marissa for the compassionate care and assistance they provided. Their presence was invaluable and comforting to both Maria and the family.
The family has entrusted the arrangements to Ford Funeral Home, Ford Chapel, 201 Columbia Street, Fairmont, WV 26554. Friends will be received on Friday, January 19, 2024 from 1 pm until 8 pm and on Saturday, January 20, 2024 from 10 am until 11 am. The funeral service will be held in the funeral home on Saturday at 11 am with Reverend Jim Zinn officiating. Interment will follow in the Mt. Zion Cemetery. Online condolences may be extended to the family at www.fordfuneralhomes.com.
