Gates, Constance

Constance Ann Gates, 61, of Athens, left this life after her courageous battle with breast cancer at 9 PM on July 23, 2012 at St. John’s Hospice in Springfield.

She was born on June 14, 1951 in Oelwein, IA to Berniece Luhmann Taylor and George Taylor. She was preceded in death by her beloved son, Kenneth Gates Jr. and her parents.

Surviving and cherishing her memories are her daughter, Deanna (Mike) Fowler of Athens, her son, Bryan (Joelle) Knoles of Springfield, her four grandchildren, Blake & Chance Fowler, Bethany Yost & Alexis Knoles, her two brothers, Dennis Taylor of Springfield and Gary Taylor of Eudora, KS., and her niece, Amy Whitecotton of Springfield.

She was employed for many years as a Power Services Coordinator for Illinois Municipal Electric Agency in Springfield. She was an active member of the Athens Christian Church.

Visitation will be from 5 to 8 PM on Thursday, July 26, 2012 at the Athens Christian Church where services will be held at 11 AM on Friday, July 27. Reverend Ken Gennicks officiating. Burial will be held at Joel Hall Cemetery at a later date. Memorials can be made to the American Cancer Society or to the Constance Gates memorial fund.