Debbie Cates

RICHMOND- Deborah “Debbie” Ann Cates went home to be with our Heavenly Father, Wednesday evening March 26, 2025 after a brief but courageous battle with breast cancer. The oldest and only daughter born to Ray and Hilda (Swoveland) Hall on August 26, 1954. She graduated from Tri High School in 1972 and was a member of Centerville Christian Church.  A life well lived, Debbie was a dairy farmer, basket maker, teacher and the heart beat of Wayne County 4-H. For the past 50 years, was a pillar of this community and has touched countless lives of 4-H families, community members, and many others who crossed her path. Her absence will be felt deeply by all as we continue on with gatherings like Basket Guild and the Wayne County 4-H fair.
     Crafty and creative, there was never a project she couldn’t master. From non-walking projects to livestock, Debbie made it her life’s work to serve others with selflessness and humor.  As we move forward without her, remember to be patient and willing to help the wonderful people and fair she loves so much as we come together to navigate life without her.
     Debbie is survived by daughters Duretta (Tim) McKee and Lee Ann (Tony) Bowman; grandchildren, Nicholas (Grace) Callahan, Hunter (Taylee) Callahan, Ali Bowman, Cash Bowman, Whitney (Chuckie) Jewett, and Kennedy McKee; great grandchildren, Rowan Callahan, Ruella and Esme Jewett; Bonus daughter, Missy Garrett; 2 brothers, Donald Hall and Doug (Lisa) Hall. Along with numerous nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles and cousins.
     Debbie is preceded in death by her husband, Dave Cates along with her mother and father Ray and Hilda.
     Visitation will be Monday March 31, 2025 from 4:00 pm until 7:00 pm at Marshall & Erlewein Funeral Home, Dublin. Funeral services will be Tuesday April 1, 2025 at 10:00 am at the funeral home. Chaplain Rick Alvey will officiate.  A community Celebration of Debbie’s life will be held at the Wayne County Fairgrounds in the Kuhlman Building from 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm April 1. Snacks will be available as we share all the wonderful Debbie stories.  In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to Wayne County 4-H in honor of Debbie.

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