James Oneal

Gates

James Oneal Gates known as "Tom Doodle Bug" was born September 10, 1948 to the late LC "Bud" Gates and Dorothy Faye Jones. He departed this earthly life peacefully on November 19, 2025 leaving behind a legacy of love, knowledge, and craftsmanship.

From an early age, he embraced his faith in Christ at Mays Chapel MB Church. Tom was a graduate of North Calhoun High School and Mary Holmes Junior College. On April 12, 1968, He married the love of his life, Annie Joyce Pulliam. To this union three children were born. Throughout his life he was a carpenter and farmer. He enjoyed building houses, raising pigs and driving tractors to farm land.

Remaining to cherish Tom's memories are his loving wife, Annie Joyce; three children, Timothy "Tim" Gates, Kenya Wallace, Victoria (Marvin) Horton; three grandchildren, Aaliyah "Jayce" Gates, Mataya "Tay-Tay" Gates, Makayla "Kayla" Gates; six siblings, Diana Wilson, Douglas "Tubby" Gates, Jennare (Sherwin) Austin, Wade (Loretta) Gates, Jerry (Tina) Gates and Edward "Ed" Gates; special cousins, Ruthie Howard and Della Sue Mingo. Tom was preceded in death by his parents, brother Michael L. Gates, and son-in-law Anthony Wallace.