Dr. Banks Raleigh Cates, Jr. Dr. Cates, of Charlotte, passed away July 22, 2007 at his home. Born March 28, 1921, in Charlotte, NC, Dr. Cates attended The Citadel and Duke University before completing his medical studies at Duke University Medical School. He served as a medical officer in the United States Navy in World War II and the Korean War. Dr. Cates was a highly respected member of the Charlotte medical community, where he was admired by his many patients for his tender, compassionate care. He was very active in the American Heart Association and served the community at large with charitable contributions of his medical services. Banks shared his passion for life and his love of nature with his family and friends as he led them on numerous camping, hiking, backpacking, sailing, and canoeing trips. He devoted much of his time to leading scout and church choir groups on these adventures as well. Banks put the same energy into his many hobbies which included his craftsmanship in making flags, kites, rope swings, board games, etc. He devoted much of his later years in researching and documenting the Cates family genealogy, becoming a valuable resource for many other genealogists. Banks was an active member of Covenant Presbyterian Church where he served as Clerk of Session and Elder Emeritus. One of his most enjoyable committees was the Music Committee. Banks is survived by his wife of 41 years, Sandra Mauldin; brother James M. Cates (Joyce) of Travelers Rest, SC; eight children: Anne C. Buckler (Tom) of Cary, NC, Dr. Banks R. Cates, III (Debby) of Simpsonville, SC, Thomas R. Cates (Lori) of Rock Hill, SC, Robert A. Cates (Vikki) of Chapel Hill, NC, Stephen B. Cates (Debbie) of Roanoke, VA, Mary C. Carlson (Jim) of Argyle, TX, John W. Cates of Charlotte, NC, and Katherine C. Cisne (Bryan) of Charlotte, NC. He is also survived by 14 grandchildren and 5 great-grandchildren. Banks was preceded in death by his first wife, Mary Jean Robinson, and his parents Banks Raleigh Cates, Sr. and Mary Louise Blakely Cates. Banks and his children dearly thank Sandra for the unwavering love and care that she bestowed upon her husband, not only in his declining years, but throughout their marriage. Memorial Service will be at 11:00am, Wednesday, July 25th at Covenant Presbyterian Church, 1000 East Morehead Street. Memorials may be made to Covenant Presbyterian Church Music Fund. Arrangements are in the care of Harry and Bryant Funeral Service.
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