Bobby Cates

Bobby Gene Cates, 84, of Nocona, Texas, formerly of Lake Dallas, passed away at his home on July 31, 2026.

Bobby was born on October 9, 1941, in DeWitt, Arkansas, to Marion and Louella (Whiteside) Cates. He married the love of his life, Margarett Sharon Croxton, on September 30, 1961, in Mesquite, Texas. Together they shared 49 wonderful years of marriage.

He was the third of four children and built a long career with Westvaco Envelope Company, where he served in numerous roles of increasing responsibility before retiring. After retirement, Bobby fulfilled his lifelong dream of living on a lake, which brought him to Nocona.

Bobby was an avid outdoorsman who loved fishing and hunting throughout most of his adult life, often enjoying those adventures alongside his son and brother. He also enjoyed traveling and trying his luck on penny slot machines. Above all, he treasured time spent with his family and friends.

Bobby was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Margarett; his parents, Marion and Louella Cates; and his sisters, Dorothy and Martha.

He is survived by his brother, Clyde Pierce and wife Donna of Wills Point, Texas; his daughter, Tina Schafer and husband Don of Nocona, Texas; his son, Bobby Cates Jr. and wife Tammy of Northlake, Texas; his grandchildren, Bryan English, Paige Seynaeve, and Cassie Beavers; six great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.

Bobby was deeply loved by his family and friends and will be greatly missed by all who knew him.

A private Funeral service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, August 8, 2026, in the chapel of DeBerry Funeral Directors in Denton, Texas. He will be laid to rest beside his beloved wife, Margarett, at Swisher Cemetery in Lake Dallas, Texas.