Deborah A.Colon
February 2, 1955- June 14, 2016
Columbus, GA-

MSG(Retired) Deborah A. Gates Colon of Columbus, passed away Tuesday at St. Francis Hospital. She was 61 years old and resided at 1842 Somerset Avenue.

A Columbus native and the daughter of the late Willie E. and Doris L. Whitley Gates, Mrs. Colon was a 1973 graduate of Baker High School. She retired from the U.S. Army Reserves after 35 years of service. She was a member of Wynnton Hill Baptist Church and a member of American Legion Post 267, served as President of the South Columbus Raiders Youth Football League(CYF) and was a Girl Scout Troop Leader. Other than her parents, she was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 31 years, Carmelo I. Colon-Gaudinot, Sr., and a brother, James T. Gates, Sr.

Surviving are two daughters, Tameka D. Gates, Antonia C. Colon; a son, Robert W. Colon; four grandchildren, Tramiyah L. Gates, Cameron I. Gates, Carlton A. Tynes IV and Carmelo A. Colon; a beloved sister, Gloria Jean Smith; nieces and nephews, Jenitha Gouch(Marcell), Kenyatta Blacks, Larry Smith, Jr., Dwayne Gates(Vivian) and James T. Gates, Jr; a son-in-law, Carlton A. Tynes III; a brother-in-law, Larry Smith, Sr; an "adopted" brother, Rev. David T. Holston; and a host of cousins, other relatives and friends.

Our beloved Deborah will be laid to rest with full military honors at the National Cemetery, Ft. Mitchell, AL., on Tuesday, June 21, 2016 following a Eleven O'clock Homegoing Celebration in the Chapel of Progressive Funeral Home, Inc., officiated by Rev. David T. Holston. Visitation 3:00 til 7:00 P.M. Monday at the funeral home. The cortege will depart from the residence Tuesday at 10:30 A.M. Arrangements entrusted to Progressive Funeral Home, Inc. "A Touch Of Dignity For Those Who Care." Online condolences may be expressed at progressivefuneralhome.com