Rev. Alcy "Junior" Kates, Jr.

Waynesville, Reverend Alcy Kates, Jr, 101, passed away peacefully on Friday, March 3, 2023 at his home.

A native of Hayesville, NC, Reverend Kates spent most of his life living in Haywood County, NC.  He was the son of the late T.A. and Ella Moody Kates.  In addition to his parents, Rev. Kates was preceded in death by four sisters; Irene Craig, Cora Mann, Nettie Coffey, and Marandi Cates; two brothers; Thomas Cates and J.B. Cates.  He proudly served his country in the US Army during World War II and received the Bronze Star and the Purple Heart.  Rev. Kates was employed by Dayco but also served the Lord as a minister of the Gospel.  He served as Chaplain of the D.A.V. Chapter 89.

He is survived by his wife of 80 years, Sudie Penland Kates; his son, Carroll Kates (Carol); a sister, Uzziel Mathis; two grandchildren; Davin Kates and Jana Kates; two great-grandchildren, Tyler and Sarah Kates; and many nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will be at 1:00 p.m. on Monday, March 6, 2023 at the Waynesville Chapel of Wells Funeral Home with the Reverend Gary Putnam and Reverend Jeffrey Moore officiating.  Visitation will be from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. prior to the service.  Burial will follow at Garrett-Hillcrest Memorial Park with military honors.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Disabled American Veterans (D.A.V.) at 2530 Chimney Rock Road, Hendersonville, NC 28792 or by calling 828-301-0436.

Enjoy this ABC13/WLOS Asheville feature on Alcy broadcast for his 100th birthday :

https://wlos.com/news/local/i-loved-my-boys-veteran-reflects-on-camaraderie-time-served-in-war-on-100th-birthday?video=830f89fedc8d47a4b7cf118197841e55

The care of Reverend Kates has been entrusted to Wells Funeral Home of Waynesville.