William Truitt Cates, age 74, of Athens, passed away peacefully on Saturday, June 7th, 2025, at Hospice Family Care in Huntsville. Born on December 25th, 1950, in Anderson, Alabama, Truitt was the son of Luster Cates and Ludie Adams Cates.
Truitt is survived by his brother, Robert Cates (Shirley), and a host of nieces and nephews: Robbie Cates, Lee Craft (Amy), Virginia Thurley (Dave), Melvin Craft (Debbie), Pam Cates, Gerald Cates, Jr. (Lavaine), Melinda Sue Craft Bohanon (Scott), Stacey Pepper, Crystal Miller (Neil), and James “Bubby” Ridgeway, Jr. (Lacey). Additionally, he is remembered by step-son Chris Killen, and several great-nieces and great-nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents, his brothers Travis “Buster” Cates and Gerald Cates, his sisters Ruth Craft and Sue Ridgeway, his niece Terri Thompson, and his step-son Kerry Killen.
Truitt had a zest for life that was evident in his passions. He especially enjoyed playing pool and spending time with his rottweilers and horses. However, nothing was more important to him than his family, whom he cherished deeply.
