Linda Gale Cates

Linda Gale drifted away peacefully surrounded by loved ones Monday morning at her granddaughter's home in Pulaski TN. Linda lived her life with an open heart, a quick laugh, and a spirit that could not be contained. She enjoyed life every single day and had a way of making the people around her feel loved, welcomed, and appreciated. Linda spoke openly and freely, never afraid to say what was on her mind. Her laughter and unmistakable personality will be deeply missed. A visitation will be held on Thursday, August 27, 2026, from 2:00pm to 5:00pm at Bennett-May & Pierce Funeral Home and Crematory. The funeral service will follow at 5:00pm on Thursday, August 27, 2026 in the chapel of Bennett-May & Pierce Funeral Home and Crematory. Linda was preceded in death by her husband, Lonnie Dee Cates; her mother, Glena McConnell; step-father, Gholson McConnell; grandmother, Maxie Gulley; and many other loved ones who surely welcomed her with open arms. She leaves behind a family who adored her: her daughter, Bonnie Cates; granddaughters, Delana (Chris) and Jaren (Devin) Thompson; great-grandchildren, Ivan and Brolin Vance, and Eva Thompson who all affectionately called her Mamma; brothers Ray (Laura) McConnell and Jerry (Terri) McConnell; her special friend, James England; and her buddy Babycat. She is also survived by many special nieces, nephews, cousins and great friends whom she loved immensely. Linda found some of her happiest moments in the simple things—especially camping, laughing, telling stories, and making memories with family and friends. She treasured the people in her life and never took a moment spent together for granted. She retired from the Tennessean Truckstop after 25 years of service and took pride in serving good home cooked style meals to people passing through. Linda's life was surrounded by love, and that love will continue through everyone fortunate enough to have known her. Her laughter will echo in the memories she left behind, her words will live on in the stories people tell, and her love will remain in the hearts of her family and friends. She lived fully. She laughed often. She loved fiercely and unconditionally. It has been a lot of fun. She is deeply, wonderfully loved forever and a day. "O wad some Pow'r the giftie gie us / To see oursels as ithers see us!" -Robert Burns (1786) Bennett-May & Pierce Funeral Home and Crematory is in charge of the arrangements for Linda Gale Cates.

Linda Gale Cates

February 13, 1946 - August 24, 2026