Ben A. Cates

CATES, Ben Annin, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and great grandfather, departed this life February 28, 2005 at 10:15AM. He was born October 1, 1931 and lived his early life with his parents, Rueal and Rubye Cates and siblings, Rueal, Jr., Doyle, June, Winston and Alice in Foreman, Arkansas.Ben received his Bachelor Degree from North Texas State University and his Masters in Education from East Texas State University and began his long and rewarding career as a teacher in 1955 in Dimmitt, TX.Ben retired from teaching in 1996 from Balch Springs I.S.D. after having touched thousands of young lives with his love, his devotion and his compassion for their futures. Ben's interest and care for everyone around him was evidenced by the devotion and love of not only his family but by the love of his friends, associates and students.Even after his retirement from school he continued teaching and preparing people to assist others through H&R Block in the professional program as well as preparing taxes for his clients. He is survived by his wife and best friend, Janelle Cates; brother, Doyle Cates and wife, Jackie; sister, June Stine & husband, Jim; daughter, Bennetta Slaughter & husband, David; son, Bruce Cates & wife, Teri; daughter, Debbie Mead & husband, Tim; son, Gary Miller & wife, Billie; grandchildren, Gloria Slaughter & husband, Gene Diveglia, Tiffany Davis & husband, David, Crystal Cates & fianc, Andy Anderson, Ashley Slaughter, T. J. Mead and Daniel Mead; great grandchildren, Colten and Lexi Davis.Also surviving is Holly, his Jack Russell Terrier, she misses him.It was always a joy for Ben to come home to his Holly. Daddy, thank you for all you did not only for us your family, but for the love, compassion and devotion you shared with so many others.We honor you and your many accomplishments. We shall cherish your memory and take your many loving lessons with us throughout our lifetimes.The world is a better place for your having been in it. For all you did for all of us, we thank you; you will live in our hearts forever. Memorial services will be 4:00PM Tuesday March 1, 2005 at New Hope Funeral Home Chapel.