Essie Cates

DURHAM Mrs. Essie P. Edwards Cates, 82, died Monday, November 22, 2010.As a lifetime resident of Durham, she retired from Liggett & Myers after 39 years of service. She was a member of Calvary Baptist Church of Durham, the Friendship Sunday School Class and a member of Gold Leaf Sam’s Motor Home Club. Born to the late Robert Lee Partin and Martha Ray Partin, she is survived by her husband, Jerry B. Cates; two sons, Eddie L. Edwards of Durham and Barry R. Edwards of Huntersville, NC.; one daughter, Patricia E. Rigsbee of Durham; two step daughters, Teresa C. Johnson of Bahama and Vicki C. Blackwell of Durham; one sister, Ann P. Allen; 8 grandchildren; and 10 great-grandchildren. Funeral services will be held on Friday, November 26 at 2:00 pm. at Hudson Funeral Chapel. Rev. Jody Griffin will officiate, and burial will be in Woodlawn Memorial Park. The family will receive friends on Friday from 12-2 pm at Hudson Funeral Home and other times at the home. Flowers are acceptable, and online condolences can be made at www.hudsonfuneralhome.com.