William E. Gates

  William “Bill” Escoe Gates, 95, died on March 8, 2020 born on June 27, 1924 in Keenan, WV, but lived most of his life in Roanoke, Va.

He was a WW II Navy Veteran, founder/owner of Gates Building and Development company and Hearing Aids of Roanoke, INC.

His family was his most important priority. In addition, he was an accomplished gourmet cook complete with his own extensive vegetable garden, a champion pool player, avid traveler, and “blackjack” enthusiast where he remarkable always “broke even”. He will be missed and loved by all.

Bill was preceded in death by his wife Dorothy F Gates, son; William Barry Gates, two sisters; Estelle (Billie) Cherry and Patricia G Myers, and three brothers; Fred A Gates, Armory Roscoe Gates, James E Gates.

He is survived by his three daughters; Pamela Lee Gates, Patricia Gates Massey, Martha Gates Funk, grandson; Peyton Gates Ratliff, granddaughter; Gracie W Ratliff, two son-in-laws; Scobee Woolwine Jr. and Melvin C Funk, and beloved family friend and care giver; Becky H Ladd.

A visitation will be held at Oakey’s Funeral home Downtown Roanoke, Thursday March 12, 2020 from 6:00 – 8:00pm.

A graveside service will be held on March 13, 2020 at Blue Ridge Memorial Gardens  at 10:00 am.