E.H. Cates, early day merchant in Leedey, died at Shawnee following a long illness. He was 83 years of age.
Mr. Cates purchased the Wey and Fisher hardware store in the early 20’s later adding a stock of groceries. He sold the store to his son, J.D. Cates, who has been in charge since 1934.
His ill health for many months, Mr. Cates became seriously ill two weeks ago. Funeral and burial services were to be at Leedey Thursday.
He also is the father of Jess Cates, another Leedey merchant.
Leedey Star, Leedey, OK 13-Oct-1948
ADDITIONAL OBITUARY OF E.H. CATES
Elijah Huston Cates was born October 25, 1865 in the state of Illinois and departed this life on Tuesday, October 5, 1948 at his home in Shawnee at the age of 82 years, 11 months and 10 days.
He moved with his parents to Earth County, Teas in 1881 and was married in 1884 to Sarah Frances Caudle. To this union four children were born. His wife, a daughter, Alberta and a son, William preceded him in death.
He was converted and joined the Baptist church at an early age, always living a devoted Christian life.
On November 20, 1922, he was married to Mrs. Alice Kent Gossage.
Funeral services werer conducted at the First Missionary Baptist Church in Leedey at 2 p.m. on Thursday, October 7, 1948 with Rev. J.J. Swofford of Elk City in charge, assisted by the pastor Rev. D. Shelby Bishop and Rev. Johnnie Williams. Burial was in Evergreen Cemetery.
He is survived by his wife of Shawnee, two sons John and Jess, both of Leedey, a stepdaughter, Opal of Shawnee, 14 grandchildren, 22 great grandchildren and a sistewr, Mrs. Charles A. Brooks, Waco, Teas.