Wilma (Temple) Gates

Wilma Temple Gates, age 97, passed away on August 19, 2026, in Ruston, Louisiana. Wilma was a talented and creative woman who found great joy in working with her hands and bringing beauty to the world around her. She especially loved tending to her flower garden and spending time on a variety of crafts. A gifted artist, Wilma enjoyed painting and quilting, creating beautiful pieces that reflected both her creativity and her patient, thoughtful nature.

Wilma is survived by her sons, Lamar Gates, Darwin Gates (Nora), and Kevin Gates (Jan); and grandsons, Alex Gates, Bryan Gates and Andy Gates.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Thomas Ray Gates; father, Jessie Temple; mother, Willie Mae (Burnham) Temple; son, Gerald Eugene Gates; and granddaughter, Robin Lindsey Gates .

Friends may visit with the family at Southern-Edmonds Funeral Home Chapel in Jonesboro, Louisiana on Monday, August 24, 2026 from 5:00 PM until 7:00 PM. A graveside service will be held at Siloam Cemetery (Gansville Cemetery) in Winn Parish, Hwy. 505, at 10:00 AM on Tuesday, August 25, 2026 under the direction of Southern-Edmonds Funeral Home.