Barbara Hastings Kates

Ms Barbara Jean Hastings Kates was born in Gonzales Tx on April 27, 1934 to the late Ms Verdee Smith and Mr James Hastings. When she was 5 years old the Hastings family moved from Gonzales, Texas to San Antonio, Texas where Barbara would begin her education at Booker T. Washington Elementary school, Douglas Junior High and graduating from Phillis Wheatley High Shool. She went on to attended Wiley College in where she graduated with a Bachelor of Science Degree. She continued her education at PrairieView A&M obtaining her Masters Degree. Barbara became an educator in the SAISD and retired in June of 1993. She continued to be active in the community and with the Phillis Wheatley Alumni Association. Barbara was married to Alton Kates. Ms. Kates was known to be the main caregiver of her family, taking care of her parents till their death, taking care of her aunts till their passing. Barbara has lifelong friendships stemming from elementary school that she treasured. She was a fiercely independent strong woman that any young lady would love to pattern themselves after. She will truly be missed. Ms Kates is survived by her son Emanuel E. Clement whom she loved dearly and a host of relatives and friends including Alton Kates.