Tommy "Cotton" Joe Gates

Tommy “Cotton” Joe Gates, 63, resident of Union County, departed this life on Tuesday, May 7, 2024, as the result of an automobile accident. Funeral Services honoring the life of Cotton will be at 2 PM Thursday May 9, 2024, in the Memory Chapel of New Albany Funeral and Cremation Care, with Larry Shaffer and Bro. Doc Shelton officiating. Visitation will be from 12 PM until service time on Thursday, May 9, 2024, in the Memory Chapel of New Albany Funeral and Cremation Care. Burial will follow in the Glenfield Cemetery.

Born October 2, 1960, in Union County to the late James H. “Buddy” Gates and Ella Little Gates and received his education from West Union School.

A Christan, Mr. Gates worked in construction for many years and his favorite past times included hunting, fishing and sharing time with his friends. 

Those left to cherish his memories include one sister, Susie Foster (Jerry) of New Albany, nephews, Brock Foster (Kristin) and Ben Foster (Avery) of Houston, a great niece, Ella Foster, a great nephew, Beckham Foster and a host of aunts, uncles and cousins.

He is preceded in death by his parents, one brother, Tim Gates, his maternal grandparents, Joe and Effie Little, Opal Akins Little, and his paternal grandparents John Thomas and Lois Gates.

Ripley Funeral Home invites you to share memories.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Tommy "Cotton" Joe Gates, please visit our floral store.