Obituary: John Rex Gates
John Rex Gates, a beloved figure in the hunting and dog training community, passed away peacefully on Friday, March 7, 2025, in Bolivar, Tennessee. He was born on May 26, 1940, in Dallas County, Alabama, and led a life dedicated to his passions and his family.
Throughout his life, Mr. Gates distinguished himself as a self-employed professional bird dog and field trial bird dog handler. His career also encompassed the commercial hunting business, where he was well known for his expertise and dedication. His skills as a trainer were unmatched; he won the National Bird Dog Championship three times, the Purina award two times, and won over 100 championships, earning him a place as the youngest professional trainer inducted into the Bird Dog Field Trial Hall of Fame. Mr. Gates was a proud 32nd Degree Mason and a Shriner, reflecting his deep commitment to service and community.
John Rex Gates was a man of many interests and hobbies. An avid outdoor enthusiast, he enjoyed hunting and fishing, especially turkey hunting, often sharing his love of nature with others. He was also a master storyteller, captivating family and friends with tales that showcased his love for the great outdoors, family, and his cherished Field English Cockers. His contributions to his community and local church, Hickory Valley Baptist Church, were significant and deeply felt.
Graveside services will be held at Leesburg Cemetery on Thursday, March 13, 2025, at 2 pm (EST) n Leesburg, Georgia. Shackelford Funeral Directors of Bolivar is in charge of the local arrangements. Mathews Funeral Home in Albany, Georgia is in charge of the arrangements in Georgia.
Mr. Gates is survived by his beloved wife, Diane Deming Gates of Hickory Valley, Tennessee, whom he married on June 5, 1982; and children, daughter, Debbie Gates Riles and Britt of Oakfield, Georgia; son, Shawn Woods and Jennie of Hickory Valley, Tennessee; daughter, Shannon Woods and Steve Walker of Monticello, Florida; and son, Shea Woods and Angela “Tootie” Woods of Toone, Tennessee. He is also survived by his sister, Sheila Gates Wheaton and John of Leesburg, Georgia; and sister-in-law, Mary Ann Gates of Leesburg, Georgia. The family lineage continues with his grandchildren, Christie Riles Riner and Brad, Gloria Field, John Evans Field, Kristopher Woods and Lisa, Brandy Simons and Andy, Zach Woods and Shelby Woods; as well as his great-grandchildren, Riles Riner, Catherine Riner, Reid Martin Riner, and Addison Simons; and numerous nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his father, John Samuel Gates; his mother, Maxine Wroten Gates; his daughter, Sheri Rex Gates Field; and his brother, Robert “Robin” Clark Gates.
John Rex Gates will be remembered not only for his remarkable achievements in the world of bird dog training and hunting but also for his profound love for family, friends, and the outdoors. His legacy will live on through the countless lives he touched and the stories he shared. Memorial contributions in his name may be sent to the National Bird Dog Museum, Bird Dog Foundation, 505 Highway 57 West, Grand Junction, Tennessee 38039 or the Shriner’s Children’s Hospital. The family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to the staff at Christian Care Center of Bolivar and Legacy Hospice of Selmer for their exceptional care, compassion, and love during this difficult time.
Courtesy of Shackelford Funeral Directors, Bolivar, Tennessee.
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