Sue Cates

Sue Cates, age 64, passed away peacefully in her home on July 21, 2026 with her loving daughter by her side. 

Sue was born on June 3, 1962, the daughter of Allen and Patricia (Ayres) Phillips. She graduated from Morrisonville High School and moved to Jerseyville, Illinois, where she married and had twin children, Danielle and Cole. Sue raised her family and worked for over 30 years as a hair stylist. She was a cherished member of the community, and she touched the lives of countless people with her talent, warm smile, and one-of-a-kind sense of humor that was contagious. 

Sue always put others before herself. She was so genuinely kind and had a caring heart. She faced life with unwavering courage and positivity that we could only hope for. She taught us many lessons through her resilient spirit that never gave up. 

Above all else in life, family is what mattered most to Sue. Her absolute greatest pride and joy was being a mother to her children, Danielle and Cole. That joy multiplied and grew deeper when she became a grandmother to Kaylin, whom she adored beyond measure. She enjoyed unforgettable family times with her mother and siblings and nieces and nephews, as well as her own children. Sue was the best mother, daughter, sister, aunt, and grandmother. Sue loved the simple beauty of life from cherished moments spent with her granddaughter, taking walks at Wock Lake with Lyn, watching the birds and nature around her home, soaking in the warm sun, listening to live music and her favorite bands, and cooking for all her friends and family. Her legacy of love, strength, and selflessness will live in the hearts and minds of all who knew her. 

Sue is survived by her mother, Patricia Phillips; her daughter, Danielle Cates; her son, Cole Cates (Sarah Cates); her granddaughter, Kaylin; her sister, Vicki (husband Eric) Turvey; her brother, Ryan Phillips; her niece, Peyton Turvey, her nephews, Casey Phillips and Timmy Bowie (Amanda Bowie); significant other, Lyn Assar; and many dear friends and loved ones whose lives were brightened by Sue’s light. 

Sue was preceded in death by her father, Allen Phillips, and her brother, Jeff Phillips. 

Visitation will be held from 10 a.m. until time of funeral services at 12 p.m., Saturday, July 25, 2026 at Crawford Funeral Home in Jerseyville. 

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to the family, in care of the funeral home. 

Memories may be shared with the family by visiting www.crawfordfunerals.com.