Beth A. Cates

Beth A. Cates, 70, of Martinsburg, formerly of Altoona, passed away peacefully on Monday at Homewood Living, Martinsburg.

She was born in Altoona, daughter of the late Robert L. and Charlotte M. (Fletcher) Whitfield. On January 29, 1983, she married Charles J. Cates in Altoona. He preceded her in death on July 24, 2025.

Beth is survived by four daughters: Stephanie L. Gonzalez (Joseph) of Virginia Beach, Michelle L. Carr (John) of Chicago, Rebecca S. Van Dyke (Timothy) of Philadelphia, and Erica M. Cates (Charles Peterman) of Chicago. She is also survived by her beloved grandchildren: Nadia Olvitt, Jaidon Mullen, Justyse and Asher Gonzalez, Katelyn, Laura, Danielle, and Christopher Carr, JJ and Tyson Van Dyke, and Charlie Jo Cates-Peterman; and by her brother, William R. Whitfield of Bedford.

Beth was a 1972 graduate of Altoona High School. After many years in the workforce, she dedicated over two decades to lovingly operating a daycare from her home, where she nurtured and cared for countless children. To Beth, this was never simply a job—it was her calling. She cherished supporting parents, loving children as her own, and creating a home filled with warmth, laughter, and guidance. Many of the families she touched remained connected with her throughout her life, a testament to her lasting impact.

She was an active member of First Baptist Church in Altoona, where she served on the mission board, and she also served for six years on the board of Precious Life.

Family and friends will be received from 10 am to 12 pm on Saturday, October 4, 2025, at Mauk & Yates Funeral Home, Inc., 719 N. 4th Avenue, Altoona. A funeral service will immediately follow at 12 pm with Pastor Tyler Pepper officiating. Burial will take place at Grandview Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to First Baptist Church of Altoona, 1209 17th Street, Altoona, PA 16601, or to The Door Student Services, 521 Main Street, Bellwood, PA 16617.