Elsie Modean Cates

Elsie Modean Cates, a cherished matriarch and beloved member of her community, passed away peacefully on September 7 2024, in Ashland, Mississippi, at the age of 97. She was born on March 10, 1927, in Gann, Tennessee to Otis Earl and Berchie Lavader (Knott) Hicks.

With a kind heart and an unwavering spirit, Elsie devoted 26 years of her life to serving others as a greeter at Baptist DeSoto Hospital, where her warm smile and welcoming demeanor brightened the days of countless patients and visitors. A very good Christian lady, she exemplified the values of generosity and faith, always putting others before herself. Her direct nature was well-known among family and friends, but those close to her understood it came from a place of love and sincerity.

Her legacy as a devoted church member will be remembered fondly by the congregation at First Baptist Church in Horn Lake, where she taught Sunday School for an impressive 16 years. Elsie's commitment to her faith inspired many, and her heartfelt witnessing touched the lives of individuals far and wide. She was deeply committed to her spiritual community, often choosing to spend her spare time visiting and nourishing her relationships within the church.

She cherished the joy of family life, priding herself on becoming a mother to three Christian children: Paula Avent, Patsy Littleton (Kenny), and Sheila Wilkes. Elsie's dedication as a mother was unwavering, and she found great happiness in watching her family grow, celebrating seven grandchildren, 19 great-grandchildren, and five great-great-grandchildren. She poured her love into every moment spent with them, nurturing and guiding her family with the same devotion she brought to her faith.

Elsie was also known for her artistic flair, particularly in ceramics, where she found both joy and fulfillment. Many will remember her lovingly crafted pieces and the warmth she infused into her home. One of the most delightful memories is of the family's tradition on Christmas Eve, going for rides to ensure that Santa Claus could come before her husband, William Paul Cates, headed off to work. This playful spirit and commitment to family traditions will forever remain in the hearts of her loved ones.

Elsie is preceded in death by her beloved husband of 60 years, William Paul Cates, whose companionship she treasured deeply. She also leaves behind the lasting memories of her dear sisters, Eva Jean Walker and Eulene Stewart, who are now reunited with her.

A visitation to honor her life will take place on September 10, 2024, from 10:00 AM until 11:00 AM at First Baptist Church located at 3505 Goodman Rd W, Horn Lake, MS. The funeral service will follow, beginning at 11:00 AM and concluding at noon. She will then be laid to rest at Mount Pleasant Cemetery, Bradford, Tennessee, at 3:15 PM.

Elsie Modean Cates will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her. Her warmth, wisdom, and unwavering dedication to her faith and family will continue to inspire those who loved her, and her legacy will live on through the many lives she touched.