Sylvester Gates

Sylvester Gates was born on December 17, 1957, in Chicago, Winois, to the late Henry Ellis

and Martha Gates-Nalls, siblings; Debra, Erma, Jerry, Cedrick, Wanda, Edmond and Jerome, niece Tierra and nephew Cortez who preceded him in death.

Sylvester received his early education at Manley Elementary School and later attended Westinghouse High School, where he graduated in 1975.

At an early age, Sylvester professed his love for Christ and was baptized at Livestone M.B.

Church, a faith that remained the foundation of his life. He attended St. Peter Missionary Baptist Church and later became a faithful member of Universal Missionary Baptist Church, where he served in various capacities throughout the years.

Sylvester was a dedicated and hardworking man who began his career at the young age of 17 with Peoples Gas. Through determination and a desire to grow, he took classes at DePaul University, transitioning from a meter reader to an Account Specialist. He took great pride in his work and remained a loyal employee until his retirement in 2008.

Beyond his work, Sylvester found joy in life's simple pleasures. He was a devoted sports fan who especially enjoyed watching wrestling. He also had a deep and abiding love for gospel music. From a young age, he sang in church choirs and continued to carry that love throughout his life, often attending gospel concerts that uplifted his spirit. His love for music and Youth especially The Anointed Voices was just another reflection of the peace and joy that lived within him.

Sylvester was a sweet and soft-spoken man whose love for his family was at the center of everything he did. His children meant the world to him, and he extended that same love to their friends, embracing them as family and creating bonds that will never be forgotten.

In 1978, Sylvester was blessed with his first daughter, Tomika. He later united in holy matrimony with Cynthia Turner, and to this union two daughters were born, Charita and Marquita. In 2008, Sylvester married Ruby Tisley and lovingly embraced the role of a devoted stepfather to her three children. He also shared a very special bond with Ruby's nephew, Torres, whom she legally adopted. Sylvester played an instrumental role in raising Torres, nurturing and guiding him. Ruby preceded him in death.

After a lengthy illness, Sylvester peacefully entered eternal rest on March 13, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family.

He leaves to cherish his precious memory: three daughters, Tomika (Ray), Charita (Marcus), and Marquita; three stepchildren, Laquita(Tommie) Roosevelt(Latoya) and Eric; a beloved son, Torres. 12 grandchildren; 5 great-grandchildren; Sisters; Ann, Gwendolyn, Vanessa, Yvette(Stephan) Dorothy(Maurice) Valarie (Cleveland) Tanya, Brother Kenneth (Connie), other siblings Henry Jr., Geneva,Kevin, Cassandra, Henry III, two godsons D'Eric and Arvell, one godsister Beverly Walker and a host of nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, great-great nieces, great-great nephews, cousins, his Universal family and dear friends who were all touched by his kindness, warmth, and gentle spirit.

Sylvester will be remembered for his quiet strength, his loving heart, and the way he made everyone feel like family. His life was a reflection of love, faith, and devotion, and his legacy will live on in all who were blessed to know him.