Raymond "Ray" Gates, Sr., 65, of Palatka, entered the sunset of life on Saturday, November 18, 2017 at Palatka Health Care Center. A native of Manhattan, NY, he was the son of John Gates and Mable Franklin, born on Saturday, February 9, 1952. He was a church school teacher, associate minister, and church custodian at Mt. Tabor First Baptist Church.

To cherish his memories: daughter, Tiffany Gates, Charlotte, NC; son, Ray Gates, Jr. and a host of nieces, nephews and other relatives and friends.

Visitation of family and friends will be Thursday, November 30, 9-11 a.m., with Homegoing Celebration, 11 a.m. at Mt. Tabor First Baptist Church, 4909 St. Johns Avenue, Palatka. Pastor Karl N. Flagg and Associate Pastor Ronald Strong, officiating.