Alonzo Gates, II

Alonzo Edward Gates II, entered into eternal rest on July 3, 2018. Alonzo, known to all as "Lonnie," was born in Laredo, Texas on January 30, 1954. He was a philanthropist and an ardent supporter of the arts, but he considered himself a ranch man above all else. He oversaw ranches throughout much of his life, at one point overseeing as many as 1,000 cattle, and created programs for wildlife management.

As a young boy, Lonnie dreamt of one day being a writer. This passion for books never wavered, and he could talk for hours about whatever books he was currently reading. Lonnie was a historian with a deep-rooted love for his family and their Texas heritage, a combination resulting in a knowledge of Texas history so rich that even museum curators walked away learning something new. He had an undying loyalty to his friends, especially those he grew up with in Laredo.

Lonnie was a conversationalist, opinionated, and always one for intellectual discourse. He was a very giving man and philanthropic by nature, supporting many organizations and also sat on the board of ArtsSA. Lonnie indulged in life and enjoyed being out with his friends: A given night out with him could consist of jazz, the opera, an art exhibit, or an event for one of the many organizations he so cherished.

Being with Lonnie was always a memorable experience and was, like Lonnie, something to be remembered and treasured forever. He will be immensely missed.

He was preceded in death by his father, Alonzo Walter Gates; his mother, Josie Pope Gates; and his brother, Joseph Gates.

Surviving him is sister Laura Irene Gates as well as many friends and extended family in Laredo and San Antonio.

Visitation will be on Monday, July 9, 2018 from 8 a.m. until 10:15 a.m. at Joe Jackson Heights Funeral Chapel, 719 N. Loring Ave. in Laredo, TX 78040.

Procession will form and depart immediately concluding the visitation period to Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church for a Mass of Christian Burial to be celebrated at 10:30 a.m.

Rite of Committal and Interment will follow to the family plot at the Calvary Catholic Cemetery.

Condolences may be extended to the family online at: www.joejacksonfuneralchapels.com

Arrangements are under the care and direction of the funeral service professionals at Joe Jackson Heights Funeral Chapel, 719 N. Loring Ave., Laredo, TX 78040, 956.722.8850