Charles "Nick" Nickells Gates

Charles "Nick" was born August 10, 1942, in Weldon, Texas. He attended Odessa College, and graduated from Midland College with a Bachelor's degree, before serving in the United States Navy. Nick married Norvela Wood in 1964 and they had one son, Stephen.

Nick was saved in 1962 at the age of 21, from that point on, he gave his entire life to God and the churches he served. He worked for both the Midland and Odessa City Police, while serving as a lay pastor. Nick, also, worked for the Odessa Independent School District as a substitute teacher for many years. Eventually, his career took him to the oil fields, all the while maintaining his vocational pastoring.

In 2021, Nick's wife of 57 years and son both passed away. After a couple years he connected with an old friend from church, Barbara Drinkard-Gates. On January 14, 2024, they were married. They were blessed with eight wonderful months.

Nick had a passion for firearms, Harley Davidson Motorcycles and sports cars. He was a good man, with an excellent sense of humor that will be missed. During his chemo treatments he would joke around with the nurses and staff, telling Barbara "that is such a tough job, they deserve a laugh."

He is preceded in death by his parents, first wife, Norvela, and son, Stephen.

Nick is survived by his wife, Barbara, brother Ralph Thompson, and many other friends and extended family.

A celebration of Nick's life will be held Friday October 18th at Mission Dorado Baptist Church, located at 4142 Faudree Road, Odessa.