Gates J. Smith

MR. GATES J. SMITH was born on November 22, 1930 in
Westpointe, Mississippi to the late Gates Smith and Lilly Cooper. He
had one brother, James Smith. Following the death of their parents,
Gates and James were blessed by God to be given a special mother,
their aunt, Janie Faulkner. In 1946, the family relocated to Indianapolis,
Indiana.

Gates was educated through the Indianapolis Public Schools system.
Following graduation, he enlisted in the United States Army from which
he later received an honorable discharge.

On December 24, 1955, he was united in holy matrimony to Jean D.
Cross who had one daughter, Linda Shemwell Baskin. Gates was also
blessed with one son, Arthur L. Smith Sr. Gates was a loving family
man who was devoted to his wife, children and grandchildren. He also
enjoyed spending time with his extended family members.

Gates was employed by International Harvester where he served as the
Union Secretary. He retired from International Harvester in 1982 and
then went on to work for Producers International for another 15 years.
Upon retiring from Producers International, he went to a full-time job
of bowling, golfing, and volunteering at nursing homes.

Gates was a wonderful athlete. He played and coached baseball and
was recruited to play in the Negro League. He earned a brown belt in
Karate and practiced Yoga and Tai Chi for over 40 years.

Gates J. Smith departed this life on August 25, 2020 at the age of 89
years. He was one of the most kindhearted, caring, thoughtful and
giving gentleman one could ever meet. He will be dearly missed.

He is survived by his loving wife of 64 years, Jean D. Smith; his loving
and devoted son, Arthur Smith Sr.; grandchildren, Arthur Smith Jr.,
Demetric Smith, Dominic Smith, Angel Smith, Traci Coleman, Robert
Baskin Jr. (Robin), Sydni Sisk, and Brandon Baskin; 18 great
grandchildren, and 2 great-great grandchildren, and a host of other
relatives, loved ones and friends.