A native and life-long resident of Hardeman County, he was the son of the late William Lindsey and Ahnada Gates. He attended Hardeman County Schools and was employed as a technician at Hyman Tire Service in Bolivar for over 35 years. In his leisure time, Johnny enjoyed fishing, racing and keeping up with the television court show, Judge Judy.
He leaves daughters, Jessica Gates of Forrest City, AR and Karen Barnes of Bolivar; sisters, Helen Mynatt, Brenda Cartlidge and Betty Clayton, all of Middleton; brother, Raymond Gates of Smyrna, TN; and four grandchildren, Austin Smith, Chloe Jones, Zoey Jones and Madison Evans.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by sister, Blanch Crum.
For information regarding memorials for Mr. Gates, please contact Lois Hyman, Hyman Tire Service, 507 West Market Street, Bolivar, TN 38008, 731-658-5112.