Robert Steven Gates, 56, of Cleveland, passed away Thursday, November 20, 2014 at his home. He was a member of St. Luke's Episcopal Church. He was employed by Hackney Home Furnishings in Athens. He loved the Washington Redskins and was a fan of the Tennessee Volunteers. He is survived by his wife, Lisa Gates of Cleveland; parents, Bobby Austin Gates and Betty Jo Gates of Cleveland; son, Charlie Gates and wife, Tabitha of Chatsworth, GA; two step-sons, Alex Whitmire and Stephen Whitmire and wife, Amy, all of Cleveland; four grandchildren and one sister, Lenora Conn and husband, Jody of Chattanooga. Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, November 25, 2014 in the chapel of Grissom-Serenity Funeral Home with the Reverend Joel Huffstetler officiating. Interment will follow in Fort Hill Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 6:00 - 8:00 p.m. Monday, November 24, 2014 at the funeral home. We invite you to send a message of condolence and view the Gates family guest book at www.grissomserenity.com . Arrangements are being handled by Grissom-Serenity Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Mark S. Grissom, Funeral Director.