It is with great sadness that we announce the loss of Katherine Gates, a beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, friend, and community pillar. Born on October 17, 1942, she left us too soon on February 1, 2024.

Katherine’s legacy extends to her children, Ebony Marcelle, Alton Smith, George Smith, and Kyle Smith, as well as her loving in-laws, Cynthia Smith, Shellie Smith, and Stefan Marcelle. She also has one Step Daughter, Tawana Roebuck. Katherine has 7 grandchildren, 1 great-grand, and other adopted grands. Her vibrant spirit and enduring love will continue to live on through them. 

Her journey began in NJ, where she graduated from Abraham Clark High School in 1961. Her career milestones include graduating from cosmetology school in 1981 and then opening a beauty shop in 1983. She spread her passionate spirit to the coast of California in 1987 when she moved to Tustin, and later to Washington D.C. in 2012.

Katherine’s life was rooted in community service and spiritual devotion. In 2005, she became an Ordained Minister and established a non-profit, "Community of Faith". Her love for her community extended to her participation in groups like Spirit Of Faith, The Red Hat Society, and Seasoned Saints.

She was a woman of many interests, including reading and music. Marvin Gaye and Jackie Wilson were among her favorite singers, and she held a particular fondness for The Bible. Katherine enjoyed a variety of TV shows including Bridgerton and This is Us, along with watching an array of movies. She backed the Lakers with full enthusiasm, and loved playing bowling and card games.

Evident in her favorite pastimes of spending time with her Red Hatter's group, the Seasoned Saints group from church, or with her youngest granddaughter Dru, she was fond of social gatherings and communal activities. Eastern Market, Spirit of Faith Christian Center, and Chesapeake Bay were among her favorite local spots.

Katherine was known for her loving, loyal, funny, spiritual, intuitive, determined and compassionate personality. A caring woman, she always encouraged everyone to assist those in need, whether family, friend or stranger.

Among her greatest accomplishments were opening her Beauty Shop and starting her non-profit. However, she considered becoming a grandmother and a great-grandmother her greatest joys. Katherine left a lasting legacy of love and faith. She was known for her culinary skills, particularly her pie crust, and loved cooking for her loved ones. A storyteller at heart who loved music and dance, her final years included leading a weekly bible study.

In memory of Katherine Gates, let us remember her lessons and celebrate her life, acknowledging her immense contribution to the lives of those around her.

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