Hilda Mae Gates Porter, 71

December 25, 1954 – March 13, 2026

Hilda Mae Gates Porter, passed away on March 13, 2026, in Myrtle, MS. Born on Christmas Day in 1954, in the quaint town of Pontotoc, Hilda’s life was a tapestry of love, dedication, and spirited joy.

Hilda was the beloved matriarch of a vibrant family, survived by her devoted husband, Lowell Porter of Enterprise, with whom she shared a life full of laughter and cherished moments. Her legacy continues through her two daughters, Melissa Williams (Jeff) of New Albany and Deanna Rainey of Fort Sill, Oklahoma, who will forever hold dear the lessons of kindness and resilience their mother instilled in them. Hilda’s special niece and caregiver, Marie Sansing, and caregiver, Izzy Shorter, also survive her, having been blessed by her bright presence in their lives.

Her six grandchildren—Walker, Thomas, Payden, Easton, Abbie (Drew), and Allie (Kamryn)—and two great-grandchildren, Kody Klaire and Briggs Randolph, will remember her as the grandmother who could always be counted on for a competitive game of Uno or a lively round of Yahtzee. Hilda’s spirit will live on through the memories of board games played, stories told, and the love she gave so freely.

Hilda’s journey began as a graduate of West Union School in 1972, an accomplishment that laid the foundation for her life as a dedicated housewife and homemaker. She was member of the Old Union Church of the Nazarene in Pontotoc. In her younger years, Hilda’s adventurous spirit shone brightly. She was always on the move—whether she was coaching softball, striking pins at the bowling alley, or planning the next family vacation. Her spirited nature and zest for life were contagious, inspiring all around her to embrace the joy of living.

She is now reunited with her parents, Earnest Dempsy Gates, and Vangie Ozell Gaines Gates, and her five brothers, Hugh, ID, Gaines, HM, and Charles Gates, who preceded her in death. Hilda’s memory will be cherished and kept alive by all who were fortunate enough to know her.

Services to honor her life will be on Sunday, March 15, 2026 at 3:00pm at United Funeral Service, and the visitation will be from 1:00pm until the start of the service. Burial will be at Enterprise Cemetery

Please follow the funeral home link above for further information, or to send online condolences or memorial gifts.

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