Brandon Martin Gates

Rev. Brandon Martin Gates age 44 of Knoxville and formerly of Dayton went to be with his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ on Thursday, September 8, 2022 at his home. Brandon was born on February 15, 1978 in Cumberland County and raised in Rhea County by his late grandparents, Martin and Mattie Harris. He was also preceded in death by his mother, Debbie Harris.

Brandon was a graduate of Calvary Christian High School, received his Associates Degree at Lee University and then earned his Bachelor of Ministry and Master’s of Divinity at WBSU. Brandon was a credentialed minister at age 16.

He pastored at the Dunlap Church of God, then Junction Church of God in Finley and currently he was pastoring at the New Harvest Church of God in Knoxville. Brandon was an avid TN VOLS fan and enjoyed hunting and golfing.

Brandon is survived by his wife Melinda (Pelfrey) Gates of Knoxville, his son, Ethan Pelfrey of Pikeville, his dad, Tommy Gates of Wilton, AL, sister, Tammy Story-Samples of Bean Station and currently parenting Raylee Minton at home.

Funeral services for Pastor Gates will be held Tuesday, September 13, 2022 at 12 o’clock noon at The Family Church with Dr. Tim Hill officiating. Brandon will lie in state at the church after 10:00 a.m. He will be laid to rest in Rhea Memory Gardens.

The family is being cared for by the Vanderwall Funeral Home.

Please share your memories and photos of Pastor Gates on his online guest register at www.vanderwallfh.com .