John Michael Gates

     John Michael Gates, age 61, of Harrisburg, passed away at 10:47 PM, March 23, 2025 at his residence surrounded by his family.

     John Michael was born on December 2, 1963 to the late John Richard and Mildred Susan (Turner) Gates.  He was a member of Buena Vista Church in Harrisburg.  John Michael “retired” from working word search puzzles.  He loved books, sitting on his front porch and spending time with his dogs, Tokyo and Rexy.  John Michael had a beautiful smile.  He was always full of joy and brought joy to those he met.  John Michael loved his family and was loved by his family; he was a wonderful brother and treasured by his family as a “gift from God”.    

     John Michael is survived by sister, Susan Gates of Harrisburg; sister, Patricia Frailey of Harrisburg; nephew, Richard Frailey and wife Sherrie of Harrisburg; nephew, Robert Frailey of Harrisburg; seven great nieces and nephews, Brittney Winters; Jeffrey Frailey and wife Rachael; Bradlee Thomas; Hunter Frailey; Noah Frailey; Sydnie Frailey; and Dylan Winters; great-great niece, Piper Frailey and great-great nephew, Parker Frailey; aunt, Shirley Turner of Harrisburg; aunt, Carolyn Turner of Harrisburg; uncle, Steve Turner of Carrier Mills; and many cousins.

     John Michael was preceded in death by his parents, paternal grandparents, Everett and Fannie Gates, maternal grandparents, Gus & Nellie Turner; brother-in-law, Rick Frailey; and several aunts and uncles.    

     Funeral services for John Michael Gates will be held at 11 AM, Friday, March 28, 2025 at Stricklin Funeral Home.  Rev. Jerry Williams will officiate and burial will follow in Sunset Lawn Cemetery. Visitation will be held from 5 PM to 8 PM, Thursday, March 27, 2025 at Stricklin Funeral Home. 

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of John Michael Gates, please visit our floral store.