James E. Gates, 86, a resident of Maple Shade Meadows Nursing Home in Nesquehoning Pa., formerly of Montgomery, passed away on May 25, 2011 at the Phoebe Home in Allentown. James was born in Lowndes County on October 6, 1924. He was the son of the late Chris and Estelle (Moorer) Gates. He was a graduate of Hayneville High School. He proudly served his country in the U.S. Army as a Sergeant in WWII and Korea, being awarded a Combat Infantry Badge and a Purple Heart in WWII. James owned and operated service stations in West Palm Beach, Miami and Montgomery, retiring in 1986. Surviving are sons, James Gates and his wife Debra of Whitehall, Pa. John Gates and his wife Cori of Lansford, Jeffrey Gates and his wife Elizabeth of Macungie, Pa.; Grandchildren: Nathan Gates, Kevin Gates, Jason Gates, Kristyn Gates, Chris Segan and Eric Segan; a sister, Mary Evelyn Fuller of Montgomery, Al., and numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by brothers, Chris, Carl and Gene Gates. There will be a private memorial service held for Mr. James Gates at New Bethel Cemetery in Braggs, Al. Dunklin & Daniels Funeral Home will be directing the service.