Francis Carroll "Sonny" Gates, Sr., 75 of Mechanicsville died peacefully amongst family members at his home, on Thursday, June 5, 2008.

Born January 8, 1933 in Washington, D.C., he was the loving son of the late Clarence and Mary Hazel Gates.

He grew up in Fort Washington, MD along with his two brothers, Maynard and Bill. He attended Oxon Hill High School, where he met his high school sweetheart, Sarah Ellen
"Sally" Baxter, whom he married June 28, 1952 in Washington, D.C.

Sonny, as he was known by to his family and friends, was a devoted husband, father, was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather and friend to all that knew him. He was a hard worker and enjoyed his career as a plumber. He also enjoyed building, so much that he built the two houses his family lives in. Also made additions to his vacation home in Myrtle Beach, S.C.

After he and Sally retired, the two of them shared many memories cruising around the world. Sonny enjoyed boating and being on the water. He kept himself busy, but always had time to spend with his family, who he loved dearly. He enjoyed summer time BBQ's and Thursday night taco nights. He especially loved taking long naps with his best buddy "Lucky" his cat that he rescued from under his vacation home.

Sonny is survived by his wife Sally, his five children; Frank Gates and wife Karen of Mechanicsville, MD, Karen Sweeney of Hollywood, MD, John Gates of Great Mills, MD, James Gates, Sr. of Garden City, S.C. and Donald Gates of Mechanicsville, MD, ten grandchildren; Steven Gates, Kenney Gates, Sarah Gates, Tammy Sweeney, John Sweeney and Linda Gates and nine great-grandchildren Bryton, Devon, Devon, Teagan, Colin, Hailey, Joshua, Haidyn, Destiny and Danay. He is also survived by two brothers Clarence Gates and William Gates and his wife June both of Fort Washington, MD. Also leaves behind numerous nieces and nephews.

Family and friends are invited to Sonny's Life Celebration in the Brinsfield Funeral Home, 22955 Hollywood Road, Leonardtown, MD on Monday, June 9, 2008 from 5 to 8 p.m. with prayers said at 7:00 p.m. Mass of Christian Burial will be offered on Tuesday, June at 10:00 a.m. at St. John Francis Regis Catholic Church, Hollywood, MD, Father Raymond Schmidt pastor of church will be the celebrant.

Serving as pallbearers will be Steven Gates, Kenney Gates, James Gates, Jr., Brian Sweeney, Kyle Burroughs and Manny Gates.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Hollywood Volunteer Rescue Squad or the Cancer Research Foundation.

Arrangements provided by Brinsfield Funeral Home.