Thomas Dean Gates

Thomas Dean Gates, 81, passed away peacefully at his home on Thursday, April 4, 2024. A resident of Burnsville, NC since 2009, he previously lived and worked in Charlotte. He was born in Surgoinsville, TN on June 6, 1942, and was preceded in death by his parents, Thomas George Gates, and Thelma Harrell Gates. Dean is survived by his wife of 49 years, Sandra Gates; daughter, Tina Gates Brooks (Ron) of Charlotte; along with many extended family members and friends.

After graduating from Dobyns-Bennett High School in Kingsport, in 1961 he attended Mount Union College in Alliance, Ohio where he was a member of Sigma Alpha Epsilon fraternity. After college, he joined the US Air Force, serving until 1967. He was also a graduate of Leadership Charlotte, a nonprofit that focuses on developing community leaders.

In Charlotte, Dean worked in sales, in real estate, founded a construction company, from 1997-2003 was a member of the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Planning Commission, and worked with the Mecklenburg Historical Association. During his time in Charlotte, he formed the Laymen Quartet that recorded two albums of gospel music and performed in churches and other venues across North Carolina for more than a decade.

After moving to Burnsville, he was asked to share his experience of reviving the town’s Planning Board that was tasked with updating ordinances and zoning regulations to prepare the town for future growth. He served as chair of that board until 2017. Dean’s generous contributions of time and knowledge to the town left a lasting legacy of community service that will guide the measured growth of Burnsville for decades to come.

He was also involved in other civic endeavors, including serving as a Yancey Hospice volunteer, volunteering with Old Timey Days, and was president and a longtime member of Traditional Voices Group. Dean and his friend Larry Howell formed a musical team that performed locally and at numerous regional venues.

The visitation will be held on Monday, April 15, 2024, from 4 to 6 p.m. Graveside services with military honors will be held in Charlotte on Wednesday, April 17, 2024, at 1 p.m. at Forest Lawn West Cemetery at 4601 Freedom Drive.

The family requests that anyone wishing to honor his memory may donate to Compassionate Care WNC, 856 Georges Fork Rd., Burnsville, NC 28714.

The family would like to thank the staff of Compassionate Care WNC, and especially neighbor Tom Maher for his kindness, support, and help during Dean’s illness.

Holcombe Brothers Funeral Home in Burnsville is respectfully serving the Gates family.

Online condolences may be made at www.holcombebrothersfuneralhome.com.

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