Debbie Jean Cates

Debbie Jean Cates, age 73, of Spring Hill, Tennessee, passed away on November 10, 2026, at Vanderbilt University Medical Center.

A graveside service will be held on Thursday, November 12, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. at Polk Memorial Gardens with Ricky LeMay and Terry LeMay officiating.

Debbie was born on May 19, 1953, in Franklin, Tennessee, to the late William Robert Beasley and Melvinia Qualls Beasley Reed.

She married the love of her life, Bobby Wayne Cates, and they shared 50 wonderful years of marriage before his passing in 2024. Together, they were faithful members of Mission's Chapel Baptist Church, where Bobby served as pastor for 22 years. Debbie was a devoted Christian woman whose faith was an important part of her life.

She was musically gifted and found great joy in playing the piano and guitar. She especially loved writing songs and poetry, earning several awards and medals for her work. She also shared her musical talents by playing piano at church. Debbie worked at McDonald's for 23 years before retiring. She had a special place in her heart for her beloved dog, Rosie, who preceded her in death.

Debbie was a sweet, kind-hearted lady who touched the lives of those around her. Her gentle spirit, love of music, and unwavering faith will be fondly remembered by all who knew and loved her. She will be deeply missed.

Along with her mother, Melvinia Qualls Beasley Reed, she is survived by her daughter, Angel Renee Vanover; her brother, Donnie (Betty) Beasley; her sisters, Darlene Parks (Jimmy Pritchett) and Diane (Terry) Hodge; special friends, Tony and Carol Busby; and numerous nieces, nephews, aunts, and uncles.

In addition to her beloved husband and father, she was preceded in death by her brother, Danny Beasley; her paternal grandparents, Willie Beasley and Aline Tindell Beasley; and her maternal grandparents, Johnnie Qualls and Ruby Austin Qualls.

Pallbearers will be Donnie Beasley, Bud, Jimmy Pritchett, Tony Busby, James Busby, and Tommy Robertson. Honorary pallbearers will be Pete Ridley and all of her McDonald's friends.