Sarah Windham Gates,79, of Gainestown, Alabama passed away peacefully on October 23, 2026. She was born to Robert L. Windham and Sadie Ruth Windham on August 22, 1947.

With hearts full of love and gratitude for a life well lived, we celebrate the life of our mother, Sara Windham Gates.

Above all else, Mama loved Jesus. Her faith was the foundation of her life and her love for the Lord could be seen in the way she lived, loved and cared for others. She found comfort in His promises, strength in his presence, and joy in knowing that one day she would spend eternity with Him.

Her family was one of her greatest blessings. She loved her children and family so much and her love was a gift that will continue to live on in the hearts of those who knew her. Through her prayers, her words of encouragement, and the countless ways she showed her love, she left a lasting impression on the lives of those closest to her. She will be remembered for the love she gave, the memories she created and the special place she held in the hearts of her family.

Her church, Jackson First Assembly, was also an important part of her life. She cherished her church family. Her faith and devotion were a testimony to the goodness of God and the importance of keeping Him at the center of our lives.

Sarah's earthly journey is complete, but her love, her faith, and her legacy will live on. We will miss her more than words can express, but we rejoice in knowing that she is in the presence of her Savior.

"Well done, thou good and faithful servant." Matthew 25:21

Until we meet again, we will carry your love in our hearts, follow the example of faith you left is, and look forward to the day when we will see you again.

She is survived by her son, Chris (Lisa Carol) Gates and daughter Wendy (Austin) Anderson; grandchildren Ryan (April) Gates, Carly Harvey, Caleb (Bailey) Anderson, Maci (Gage) Stuckey, Nikki (Joshua) Parden, Jasmine (Terry) Kiker, and Micah Anderson; great-grandchildren, Kerri Harvey, Sarah Harvey, James Stuckey, Kayleigh Gates, Addison Kiker, Arianna Bennet, Haven Kiker, Harli Parden, Dylon Jackson, Harper Anderson, and Lauralye Jackson; her brothers, Tommy (Billie) Windham, Todie Windham; sisters Nancy (Troy) Spence, Teenie Ellison, as well as a host of nieces and nephews.

Sarah was preceded in death by her husband, Walker Gates; her parents, Robert L. and Sadie Ruth Windham; granddaughter, Audrey Gates; brother-in-law, Royce Ellison and sister-in-law, Elaine Windham.

A celebration of life service will be held at Jackson First Assembly on October 27, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. with a visitation held an hour prior with Rev. Kevin Lewis officiating. Interment will follow at Perry's Chapel Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Jackson First Assembly in Sarah's memory.

Pallbearers are Ryan Gates, Caleb Anderson, Micah Anderson, Daniel Ellison, Patrick Spence, and Larry Windham.