Retta Fay Cate

Retta Fay Cate, age 78, of Benton, Tennessee, passed away peacefully on October 19, 2025. Born on November 23, 1946, in Charleston, Tennessee, Retta was a beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother and sister, whose life was marked by her devotion to family and her passion for several cherished hobbies.

Retta graduated from high school and dedicated many years to her work as a sewing machine operator, retiring from Benton Manufacturing.

Retta was a person of many interests. In her leisure time, she found joy in fishing, reading, working puzzles and listening to music. However, her greatest joy came from spending time with her family, especially her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She was especially proud of Lindsey Mikel, Samantha Beavers, Mary Kerley, and her great-grandsons, Weston and Hudson Garrett. She took immense pride in her family and cherished every moment spent with them, creating lasting memories that will be held dearly by her loved ones.

Retta is survived by her daughters, Kimberly Kerley and Whitney Mikel, son-in-law Sean Mikel, sister Ollie Lewis, and brother-in-law OJ Lewis. Her warm spirit and nurturing heart will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

A memorial service will be held on October 24, 2025, at 4:00 PM, with a visitation preceding the service at 2:00 PM, at Companion Funeral & Cremation Service in Cleveland. Retta's presence will be felt in the memories she created and the love she shared.

Retta was preceded in death by her parents Ted and Alice Blackwell, and her husband Bobby Cate.