Evelina Gates

Evelina Gates, more affectionately known as Evie, was born on January 18, 1946 in Charleston, SC to parents Mary Ella and Robert Myers.

Evelina lost her mother at a young age, which had a significant influence on whom she would later become. She learned to sew and cook from her Aunt, which helped her to take care of herself in her teenage years. As a young girl, she made her own dolls and clothes. Growing up on John's Island, SC, Evelina enjoyed school as well as spending time with her dear cousin Pat and close friend Louise. In May of 1964, she graduated from Haut Gap High School. Shortly thereafter, Evelina moved to New York City where she lived with her sister Henrietta.

Evelina loved to play in hair and it would seem that she would become a Beautician. But a conversation with a friend steered her in the direction of Nursing. In 1975, she received her Associate's Degree in Applied Science and shortly thereafter, she received her license as a Registered Nurse. While delayed, her education did not stop there. In 1992, Evelina earned her Bachelor's of Science from Iona College. She later went on to pursue graduate studies but was never able to find the time to complete her Master's Degree.

Evelina would be a nurse for more than 40 years. She began her career at a private residence in Riverdale and then moved on to the North Central Bronx Hospital. She ended her nursing career journey at Jacobi Medical Center.

Over the course of her career, she met so many wonderful people who became a second family to her. She had the amazing privilege to serve in a variety of roles during her tenure. In 1989, Evelina received the Nurse Excellence Award from then Mayor Edward Koch for Distinction in Service.

In 1974, Evelina was set up on a blind date with Gerald Gates by a mutual friend Dean. The couple hated each other at first. Days later though, after hearing Gerald had been hospitalized, things took a turn. Evelina came every day to visit and nurse Gerald back to health. The two fell in love and surrounded by friends and loved ones, were married in 1975. In 1977, Evelina and Gerald purchased their house in Pelham, NY. This house became a home that they filled with joy, love and memories for more than 40 years.

In 1977, the couple was blessed with their only child Sabrina, whom Evelina doted on from childhood to adulthood. Evelina believed strongly in the power of education and made that her priority in the rearing of her daughter. She made sure that Sabrina had the best possible opportunities. In her later years, Evelina and Sabrina became more than mother and daughter. They became confidants, shopping buddies, travel companions, and best friends.

Evelina loved a lot of things. She loved nature, especially the beach and mountains. The open air brought her peace. She loved travel. She was always ready for the next adventure, whether by land or by sea. She loved God because she knew that through him all things are possible. She loved a good game of cards or any game for that matter. Evelina had a strong and deep love of family. Family was such an important part of her life. She loved her family with every bone in her body and wanted nothing but the best for them.

Evelina departed this life on March 31, 2018. and leaves to cherish her memories her beloved husband Gerald, her loving daughter Sabrina, her devoted siblings, brothers John Miles (Elsa) and Leroy Eugene Miles, sister Debra Meyers, sister in law Joan Gates, Brothers in Law Walter and Joseph Gates and a host of nieces, nephews and cousins and lifelong friends that she adored.

A celebration of Evelina's life will take place Friday, April 13th from 5 pm to 8pm at the Pelham Funeral Home 64 Lincoln Avenue, Pelham NY. A funeral service will take place at 9:30 am on Saturday, April 14th at Community Protestant Church located in Bronx, NY. Interment will follow at Mount Hope Cemetery located in Hastings-on-Hudson, NY.

For more information or to leave a condolence please visit www.pelhamfuneral.com.