Judy Kathryn Gates, 67, passed away peacefully in her home on Monday, January 6, 2020. She was born on March 30, 1952 to the late Basil and Ellen Beard in Batesville, Arkansas. She was of the Assembly of God. When she wasn't working at the White River Medical Center in the dietary department, Judy loved to spend her time cooking, enjoying a good book, and most of all she loved taking care of her family. In addition to her parents she was preceded in death by her beloved husband Tommy Gates, sister Armalee Strock and brother Joe Beard.

She is survived  by her son John Rowe (Charlotte) of Batesville, Arkansas; step-son Shane Gates of Louisiana; daughters, Kathryn Fulcher (David) of Batesville, Arkansas; and Sonya Bunch (Junior) of Charlotte, Arkansas; step-daughters, Melinda Morris and Patti Jernigan both of Louisiana; and brother Jerry Beard of Cave City, Arkansas. Judy is also survived by 18 grandchildren and 13 great grandchildren.

Visitation will be Thursday January 9 from 6-8 p.m. and her service will follow on Friday, January 10, 2020 at 2:00 p.m. Both will be held at Willis Funeral Service. Burial will be at Blue Springs Cemetery of Newark, Arkansas.