Cecile M. Gates

Cecile M. Gates, age 86, passed away on June 1, 2024. Beloved daughter of the late Paul Louis and Marcelle Elvire (Louvard) Gabé.

Cecile is survived by her loving children, James P. Gates (Darlene S.) and Celine T. Gates, her sister Paulette Chretien, 2 grandchildren James P., Jr. and Justin P. and many nieces and nephews. Cecile was married to the late James R. Gates who passed in 1991.

Cecile was born in a small village by the name of Frenchville located in the North End of France. Cecile went to a business school and upon graduation she went to the Army and Air Force Bases to apply for a job. She was hired by the Army and was trained as an IBM Clerk. It was there she met her husband James Gates who was a Government Civilian Worker. They later married.

Cecile immigrated to the U.S. in 1960 and became an American citizen in 1970. Cecile and James lived in Drexel Hill, moved to Alabama where she gave birth to her son and then moved back to Drexel Hill, They moved to Williamstown NJ but when they discovered their daughter Celine was deaf they moved back to Delaware County to enroll her in a special education school. Cecile filled her days volunteering at her children’s school and also volunteered at St. Francis of Assisi school teaching French. When her children grew up she continued her love of children by babysitting. She loved to keep busy. Her favorite activities included bowling, art and floral design.

Relatives and friends are invited to Cecile's viewing from 9:30AM to 10:30AM followed by her Funeral Service at 10:30AM at St. Francis Of Assisi Parish, 136 Saxer Avenue, Springfield, PA 19064. Interment at SS Peter & Paul Cemetery, 1600, sproul Road, Springfield, PA 19064.