Mrs. Christine (Rodgers) Gates of Newport, Arkansas, departed this life on Monday, June 23, 2025, at the age of 98. She was born July 11, 1926 in Newport, the daughter of Henry and Flora (Horn) Rodgers.
Mrs. Gates co-owned Gates Grocery Store in Newport alongside her husband, Kinerd, for over 30 years. From 1979 to 1982, she served as Jackson County Treasurer.
Mrs. Gates played a vital role in establishing the Inmate Family Ministry for the Grimes and McPherson Correctional Facilities. This ministry offers families a comfortable space to rest, use the restroom, and enjoy refreshments while waiting in line to visit their incarcerated loved ones. In March 2024, the ministry was renamed the Christine Gates Inmate Family Ministry in recognition of Mrs. Gates’ dedication and hard work for this important outreach.
Mrs. Gates took pleasure in tending to her flower beds and enhancing the beauty of her home. She was an excellent cook who enjoyed completing crossword puzzles and playing Bridge with her friends. She cherished time spent with family and friends.
Mrs. Gates was an active member of the Newport First Baptist Church, where she taught the Dorcas Class as well as the Precepts Class.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Kinerd Gates; one son, Kenny Gates; one daughter, Charlotte Gates; and her parents.
Mrs. Gates is survived by two granddaughters, Kristy Stalik and husband, Chris of Georgetown, Texas, and Samantha Letson of Paragould; six great-grandchildren, Jonathan Wade of Bedford, Texas, Dylan Wade of Cave City, Jailynn Graham of Garland, Texas, Conner Graham of Georgetown, Texas, Tanner White of Conway, and Madison Mizell of Jonesboro; five great-great grandchildren, Karsie, Kylan, Kannon, Khloe, and Wyatt, with another on the way; her bonus son, John McClung and wife, Margie of Cordova, Tennessee; special niece, Wilma Evins and great-niece, Paula Breckenridge, both of Newport; many nieces and nephews; and a lifetime of friends.
Memorial services will be announced at a later date, and will take place at Jackson’s Newport Funeral Home Chapel.
Arrangements by Jackson’s Newport Funeral Home.
