Monday, February 16, 2026 9:12 am

Verna "Jerrie" Cates, affectionately known as "Jerrie," of Kings Mountain, NC, peacefully transitioned into eternal rest on February 9, 2026, at her home. Born on November 2, 1944, in Rowan County, NC, she was the daughter of the late William Musgraves and Poniese Randall. Jerrie was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 49 years, Harry Douglas Cates, and her sister, Elizabeth Susanne Randall. A devoted member of First Wesleyan Church, Jerrie played an active role within her community as a Sunday school teacher, a choir member, and as a participant in the Good News Club and the Young at Heart program. Her commitment to service extended to her time in the United States Air Force Reserves Nurse Corps, where she faithfully served as a Second Lieutenant. Following her military service, Jerrie pursued a fulfilling career in nursing, dedicating 40 years to healthcare as a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA), retiring from Gaston Anesthesia Associates. Throughout her life, Jerrie remained active; she enjoyed working out, playing basketball, running, cycling and was passionate about tennis, even participating in the Charlotte Observer Marathon. In her leisure time, Jerrie delighted in watching sports and was a staunch supporter of Duke University's teams. Known for her upbeat attitude and generous spirit, she made countless friends who became like family. Jerrie's kindness and warmth will be cherished, as her memory continues to live on in the hearts of those who had the privilege to know her.

She is survived by many friends who were as close to Jerrie as family

FUNERAL SERVICE: Saturday, February 14, 2026 at 3:00 PM at First Wesleyan Church with Pastors Caleb Williams and Dale Lawing officiating

A time of fellowship with friends will be held from 2:00 PM to 2:50 PM prior to the service in the sanctuary of First Wesleyan Church

INTERMENT: Mountain Rest Cemetery, Kings Mountain, NC

MEMORIALS: Memorials in Jerrie's memory may be made to First Wesleyan Church at 505 North Piedmont Avenue, Kings Mountain, NC 28086

GUEST REGISTER AVAILABLE AT WWW.HARRISFUNERALS.COM
ARRANGEMENTS: HARRIS FUNERAL HOME AND CREMATION SERVICES, KINGS MOUNTAIN, NORTH CAROLINA