Donald Ray Gates, AKA , "Gator" or "Big D" Age 68, of Sylva NC, passed away, after a period of declining health, peacefully at home, Monday November 18th 2019. He was surrounded by family, and beloved cat Kitty Baby. In high school he played baseball, and later could be found at the softball field pitching or umpiring. He had a burning love for dirt track racing, and was an avid hunter. He always enjoyed supporting local turkey shoots. He retired from the North Carolina Department of Transportation in 2013. He was a member of Locust Field Baptist Church. He is survived by his loving wife of 48 years, Rosetta Carter Gates, daughter Christy Gates Clayton, son-in-law Quincy Clayton, and granddaughter Cheyenne Rose Clayton. He was preceded in death by his parents Ora and Charity Gates, and several half-siblings. Services at Appalachian Funeral Services of Sylva, NC are as follows: Receiving friends on Thursday, November 21 from 6:00 - 8:00 pm and funeral at 2:00 pm Friday November 22, with the Reverends Eddie Stillwell, Roger Stewman, Mike Farmer, and Austin Frady officiating. Burial will follow at Old Savannah Baptist Church Cemetery. Pallbearers and Honorary Pallbearers will be family members and special friends. Appalachian Funeral Services of Sylva is serving the family.