Matthew F. Gates

Matthew F. Gates, 43, died on October 4, 2026 at his home in Fairmount. Born in Urbana on April 9, 1983, he was the son of Steven and Lori Gates. Matthew was a graduate of the Central High School Class of 2001. Following high school, he entered the Airforce and went on to build a career doing work he genuinely enjoyed. He worked at several auto shops in the area before spending 10 years with Beaumont Auto & Tire Service in Champaign.

Matthew had a deep enjoyment for the things that brought him happiness and connection. He liked working on cars, playing video games, and playing frisbee golf. He loved his animals, guns, and was an avid Chicago Cubs fan. He also found special joy in being around little kids and older people, and he treasured the time he spent with his friends.

Those who knew Matthew will remember him most for his kind, loving, and thoughtful nature.

He was preceded in death by his father, Steven Gates, and his grandparents Richard & Hazel Francis and Orville & Dorothy Gates.

Matthew is survived by his mother, Lori {Francis} Gates; his son, Billy Mansfield; and his brother Aaron (Meredith) Gates. He will also be dearly missed by his niece Nyx Gates and nephew Ollivander Carpenter-Gates, his uncles, aunts and cousins as well as his dogs Laika and Gus, his cats Pumpkin and Smokey.

Per his wishes, Matthew will be cremated. A celebration of his life will take place at the First Christian Church in Champaign in the near future. Sunset Funeral Home and Cremation Center in Danville assisted his family with arrangements. Online condolences, fond memories, and photographs can be shared with his family at www.sunsetfuneralhome.com.

In lieu of flowers his mother requests that donations be made to one of the following: His son Billy Mansfield, Sunset Funeral Home towards his end of life arrangements, First Christian Church, or an animal rescue of your choice.