Betty Ruth Helton Gates, age 93, of St. Mark's Church Rd. passed away Wednesday, November 8, 2023, at Peak Resources in Cherryville with her son and daughter by her side.

She was born February 16, 1930, in Gaston County to the late June and Ada Neal Helton. She was a lifelong member of St. Mark's Lutheran Church where she also served as treasurer for many years. Betty Ruth had a career in banking and retired as Head Teller from BB&T. In her retirement years, she loved going shopping, going out to eat with friends, and collecting all things owl related. Her greatest joys in life were her grandchildren and spending time with her family.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Charles Eldon Gates; and sister, Shirley Huffstetler.

Survivors include her son, Dale Gates and wife, Lori; daughter, Jill Gates Brown; grandchildren, Austin Gates, Will Gates, and Courtney Brown; nephew, Neal Duncan; and niece, Kim Duncan.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to the staff of Peak Resources for the love and care shown to Betty Ruth and the Gates family during her residency at Peak.

Funeral services will be held Saturday, November 11, 2023, at 2:00 PM at St. Mark's Lutheran Church with Minister Brad Alexander officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. The family will receive friends Saturday from 1:00 to 1:45 PM prior to the service at the church.

Memorials may be made to St. Mark's Lutheran Church, 1203 St. Mark's Church Rd. Cherryville, NC 28021.

Condolences may be made to www.carpenterporter.com