Emily Porter Cates

Emily Porter Cates, a beloved and cherished member of the Cincinnati community, peacefully passed away at home on November 30, 2023, at the age of 96. She was born on September 13, 1927, in Hickory Valley, Tennessee to William G. and Estelle Porter (nee Scott) who instilled in her a deep love for family and faith.

Emily will be remembered as a devoted daughter, loving wife, sister, and dear mother of four children. She found solace and guidance in her faith, spending countless hours reading her Bible and delighting in the wisdom it provided. As a very devout Christian and prayer warrior, we know she is so happy to be Home with her Savior. Emily’s remarkable devotion to the Lord was evident in her daily life, as she carried His love and kindness with her wherever she went.

Emily’s professional journey led her to a career in administration at Jewish Hospital. She dedicated much of her time serving others through Young Life ministries and the Billy Graham Crusade where her compassionate nature and unwavering work ethic touched the lives of many.

Outside of her professional life, Emily’s passions included her love for reading and writing. She would often be found engrossed in a captivating book, immersing herself in the worlds created by the written word and she also enjoyed documenting her thoughts and reflections, leaving behind a legacy of love, compassion, and cherished memories.

She was preceded in death by her late husband, William F. Cates and a granddaughter, Samantha Cates.

Emily is survived by her devoted sons, Scott (Mary) Cates, David Cates, her beloved daughter, Betsy (Eric) Ettensohn and Steve (Molly) Cates. Emily had eleven grandchildren, fourteen great-grandchildren, and a host of family members and friends who will miss her dearly.

A Memorial Service to honor Emily’s life will be held at Twin Towers Senior Living Community Chapel, 5343 Hamilton Avenue, 45224 on Monday, December 18, 2023. Visitation 10:00 AM to 10:45 AM. Service 10:45 AM to 11:30 AM. Procession to Arlington Memorial Gardens, 2145 Compton Road, 45231 will immediately follow. Burial will take place in the Garden of Patriotism at 12:00 PM.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to:

St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital
P.O. Box 50
Memphis, TN 38101-9929

LEC Foundation
Twin Tower General Fund
5343 Hamilton Ave.
Cincinnati, OH 45224