Hugh Gordon Cates

Hugh Gordon Cates, 96, originally from Atlanta passed away peacefully at his home in Hiawassee, Ga on Saturday November 16, 2024. He has had land in these mountains that he loved since 1967 and built his cabin shortly after. He was a proud Emory University graduate and an executive in Public Relations at the Southern Bell Telephone Co before it became AT&T. He was also the Secretary of the Richard B. Russell Foundation where he created an oral history that is housed in the University of Georgia archives. For the oral history, he interviewed 3 former Presidents and 53 sitting US Senators about the late Georgia Senator. He also proudly served his country in the Army and reserves for years spending 13 of those months stationed in Korea. 

He was predeceased by his loving wife of 60 years, Lois Bizzell Cates. He is survived by 2 children, Suzanne Martin and Dr. Chris Cates. Also surviving are 5 grandchildren: Hannah Martin, Callie Martin, Nathaniel Cates, Andrew Cates, and Caroline Cates Ivie. He also leaves behind 9 great grandchildren. He will be greatly missed!

Funeral: Wednesday, November 20, 2024 1:00PM at McConnell Memorial Baptist Church