After years of fighting cancer, I, Gwendolyn Coates Francis of Nathalie, Va., finally won the battle on July 5, 2024 and now I get to be pain free with Jesus.  I am joining my mama, Mary Catherine Dickerson Coates, and daddy, Jack Lee "Judge" Coates.

I leave on earth my daughter, Stacy Tingen and husband Randy; a son, Michael Williams; and my beloved grandchildren, Ericka Walker, Nova Rayne Tingen, Koty Tingen, Parker Tingen, and Payton Tingen, all of Nathalie, Va., Mady Tingen of Santa Rosa, CA, Dillion Williams of Ocean Isle, NC, Siena Garrett Bruce Williams, Katherine Williams, and Logan Williams, all of Brookneal, VA.; two very special friends, Wanda Metcalf of Manteo, NC, Becky Hartley of Rayville, LA; a very special nurse, Elise Stovall; and a few special cousins.

Inurment will be private.  Memorial contributions may be made to the North Halifax Volunteer Fire Department or the Alan B. Pearson Cancer Center in Lynchburg.