Kenneth "Kenny" Gray Gates

Kenneth "Kenny" Gray Gates, of Inman, passed away softly and tenderly in the presence of his family on, Thursday, July 23, 2026. Kenny was born on November 3, 1930, in Lincolnton, North Carolina. He was the son of the late James Fred Gates and Flora Belle Gates. Kenny leaves behind a legacy of music, family devotion, and a life well lived.

Kenny was often referred to as the kindest gentleman in gospel music. He was a Southern Gospel musician, playing most of his career with the Blue Ridge Quartet. A song writer whose gifts blessed many people over the years and whose work carried the message of hope, grace, and salvation. Through his music, he touched hearts, strengthened believers, and helped point countless people toward the goodness of the Lord. He was not only a talented artist, but also a man who understood that every gift comes from God and should be used to glorify Him.

He was honored as a member of the Southern Gospel Hall of Fame class of 2011 and was also recognized in the South Carolina Gospel Music Hall of Fame. These honors reflected what so many already knew about Kenny, which was that he gave his life gospel music with, humility, and purpose. He was a published songwriter whose words and melodies carried encouragement, testimony, and truth.

Kenny also lived a life marked by many abilities and interests. He was a licensed pilot, a Mason, and a man who appreciated both discipline and adventure. He was proud to be a girl dad, and he cherished his daughters deeply. He was also known as Rex Nelon's golf partner in the days of the "Singing Caravan," a memory that speaks to the joy, fellowship, and camaraderie he found in a life surrounded by music. One of the most tender habits of his life was calling his sister, Pauline, every day, a simple and faithful act that revealed the depth of his love and loyalty to family.

He is survived by his loving wife of forty-eight years, Cynthia "Cindy" Gates, who shared in his journey with devotion and grace. He also leaves behind his daughters, Donna Gates Wray (Briggs), Bonnie Gates Stewart (Bill), Tamara Gates Bailey (Mark), and Elizabeth Gates Painter (Keith). His legacy continues through his grandchildren, Kim Powell (Tim), Kristen Greene (Josh), Lauren Williams (Joe), Candace Masterpolo (Dan), Cameron Bailey (Kendra), Bryce Painter, and Corbyn Painter, as well as through his nine great-grandchildren.

Kenny is also survived by his sister, Pauline Payseur, his brother-in-law, David Stauffer, and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, whose memory remained part of the foundation of his life.

Those who loved Kenny will remember him as faith-filled, creative, and loving. He was a man who believed in the importance of family, and the value of using every day wisely. His life was a testimony that a person can serve the Lord with joy, create with purpose, and love with consistency. He lived with a grateful heart and a generous spirit, and he leaves behind not only memories, but also an example worth following.

Though Kenny's earthly journey has ended, his influence remains. The music he performed, the songs he wrote, the lives he touched, the family he cherished, and the faith he lived will continue to speak. His life reminds us that a legacy is built not only by achievement, but by kindness, devotion, and obedience to God. Kenny Gates ran his race with dignity, and now he rests in the eternal care of the Lord he served.

The family will receive friends Friday, July 31st from 11:30 AM until 1:00 PM with funeral services to begin at 1:00 PM in the Chapel of Eggers Funeral Home of Boiling Springs with Pastor Terry Howell officiating. Interment will follow at Good Shepherd Memorial Park.

Pallbearers will be Robbie Huber, Tom Scheffner, George Weibley, Charlie Mahala, Sammy Horne, and Mark Haydt. Honorary Pallbearers will be David Stauffer and Craig Horne.

In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to: SGMA, P.O. Box 6729, Sevierville, T.N. 37864