of Harrison, AR

June 26, 1958 - March 8, 2025

Kenneth Dale Cates, age 66, of Peel and Harrison, Arkansas, passed away calmly surrounded by his three kids, dad and family, March 8, 2025, at Hospice of the Hills, Hospice House. He was born on June 26, 1958, in Clinton, Arkansas, to Robert Lee Cates and Wilma Faye Turney Cates.

Kenny's early life was marked by the loss of his father at a young age. His mother later married Donald D. Dillwith, who lovingly treated Kenny as his own son, providing him with lifelong guidance and support.

Kenny was also preceded in death by his mother, older brother Wayne Cates, and niece Alyssa Cates.

Kenny found solace and joy in the simple pleasures of the outdoors. He was an avid fisherman, casting lines for any type of fish he could catch, in the serene waters that surrounded his home, or anywhere he could dip a pole. Hunting deer in the crisp autumn air was another true passion, a testament to his deep connection with nature. His love for anything with an engine was evident in his fascination with cars, motorcycles, or any thing with wheels. His practical nature shone through in his skill as a true jack-of-all-trades, always ready to lend a hand. Anytime.
Above all, Kenny's world revolved around his family, especially his grandchildren, who were the absolute light & love of his life. He poured his heart into raising them, teaching them the invaluable skills of self-reliance and the importance of family bonds. His dedication to his family extended to countless others, as he was always the first to offer help, no matter the task. His generosity knew no bounds; after a long day at work, he would readily assist anyone in need. One day, he loaded his kids in the back of a camper on his truck, to deliver food and clothes to those in need in deep southern Arkansas. In the 1990s, driven by compassion, he loaded and drove a U-Haul to deliver supplies to tornado victims, all at his own expense. He was a champion for "Save the Children," and his actions spoke volumes of his commitment to helping those less fortunate. Teaching this to his children their whole lives. He volunteered as a firefighter for Krooked Kreek fire department over the years.

He never met a stranger. Never. Always saying Hi and starting a conversation, which turned into a lot of good friendships. He loved to talk to everyone, a lot. A whole lot.

Kenny was a die-hard Kansas City Chiefs fan, was the king of junk food, and had a metabolism that defied logic. He lived on snack foods and fast food, yet his energy and vitality were boundless. He was a little man with a huge heart, a heart that overflowed with love and kindness. Though not always a regular church attendee, Kenny's faith was unwavering. He was a devoted reader of the Bible and often volunteered with Vacation Bible School, church camp, driving a bus to make sure others had a way to go, or just embracing any role with enthusiasm- even one time dressing as an old lady for VBS. He got his love of Christmas from his mother and continued the traditions she had started, though he added his own twist of affectionately wrapping gifts with Dollar-General bags, which became a new tradition that will be carried on.

The Masters, Whorton, and Cates get-togethers were filled with laughter, love, and loudness that will continue in his memory. His best friend, David Dillion, shared countless memories with Kenny, a testament to their loyal and lasting friendship. His sister-in-law, Phoebe in Florida, has always been a special part of his life since the age of 16. He cherished time with his son's best friend, Carry Smith, who he thought of as a son. He enjoyed his work at Fountain Home Center, where he took pride in caring for customers and their appliances, developing new friendships along the way. A true survivalist, Kenny could "Kenny-rig" anything, a skill that served him very well in life. Kenny's love for classic rock and Willie Nelson provided the soundtrack to his life. He loved music, whether he was picking or just listening. He enjoyed watching older shows, including one of his favorites, M*A*S*H.

His family requests that those attending his service dress in casual and comfortable attire, as Kenny would have preferred, reflecting his easy-going nature- camo, fishing, hunting, or anything outdoors. Kenny Cates will be sorely missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him. His legacy of kindness, generosity, and unwavering love will live on in the hearts of his family and friends.

Faith, Family, and Friends: these were the cornerstones of Kenny's life, and he lived them to the fullest. Even until his work on earth was finished.

His three children survive Kenny: Misty, Kristi (Derek Hicks) and Wayne (special daughter in law, Akino) Cates all of Harrison, dad Donald Dillwith. His six grandchildren: Brylea Sprenger, Josiah Phillips, Tommy Phillips, Micah Phillips, Akira Cates and Dacey Cates. A host of nieces, nephews, cousins and a bunch extended family.

Visitation will be 1-2:00pm Wednesday, March 12th at Roller-Christeson Funeral Home. Funeral services will be 2:00pm Wednesday at the Funeral Home with Rachelle Whorton Such and Brother John Kindrix officiating and special words from Kristi Cates. Interment will be in Maplewood Cemetery
.
Hucklebearers: Micah Phillips, Carry Smith, Cody Lane, Russell Eye, Bill Brown, Charlie Estes and Matt Sprenger.

Honorary Hucklebearers: Edwards/Cash Saver staff, Claude Parish Staff/Michelle Riggs, Fountain Home Center staff, Josiah Phillips, Thomas Phillips, David Dillion, Larry Case, Charlie Cates, and Jonathon Estes, Tabitha Thomas, Sharon Estes, Linda Brown, and all those touched by his life.

In lieu of flowers, Kiwanis Kids Fishing Derby, bring a bag of bobbers for community area kids, or give to his grandchildren in his memory.

Sign Guestbook

7 Condolence(s)