Myrtle Charlotte Gates, a member of the First Christian Church, Disciples of Christ, passes away at 98

Myrtle Charlotte (Binnier) Gates, 98, of Lehigh Acres, Florida, formerly of Decatur, passed away at 7:00 am on March 7, 2010. A celebration of life service was held on March 15, 2010, at Graceland/Fairlawn Funeral Home in Decatur, where Pastor June Moll officiated. Visitation took place one hour before the service, followed by interment at Graceland Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions were suggested to the First Christian Church, Disciples of Christ, in Lehigh Acres or to a charity of the donor’s choice.

Myrtle was born on September 14, 1911, in Bridgeport, Illinois, to Charles and Mary Elizabeth (Stater) Binnier. She married John Roy Gates on September 17, 1931, in Decatur, and they celebrated their 75th wedding anniversary in September 2006. Myrtle worked as a Pharmacy Technician at St. Elizabeth Hospital in Danville. She was a member of several congregations, including the First Christian Church in Decatur, Central Christian Church in Danville, and was a charter member of the First Christian Church, Disciples of Christ, in Lehigh Acres, Florida.

Myrtle is survived by her daughter Nancy Kay (David) Weiser of Lehigh Acres, FL, her son Charles Roy (Rose) Gates of Danville, IL; four grandchildren—John Michael Weiser of Oakland Park, FL, Julie Kay (John) Lanza of Cape Coral, FL, Jon Martin Gates of Danville, IL, and granddaughter-in-law Kristi Gates of Darrington, WA; and four great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband John Roy Gates in January 2007, as well as her sisters Aretta Graham and Mary Hillard, and her grandson Charles Douglas Gates.

Myrtle enjoyed flower gardening, sewing, and crocheting beautiful afghans. She cherished time with her grandchildren and great grandchildren, and her warm, loving smile will be missed by all who knew her. Known for her caring and gentle nature, she was always willing to help others.

Myrtle’s life reflected a commitment to community and service, embodying the values of charity and hospitality. Her legacy continues through the institutions and relationships she nurtured, serving as a testament to the enduring impact of a life lived with compassion and kindness.

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