Cecilia "Dawn" Cates

Cecilia "Dawn" Cates, born on January 18, 1969, passed away on January 16, 2025, leaving behind a legacy filled with love, creativity, and pride in her family. She was well-known for her dedication and hard work throughout her career. She loved working at Dillards, where she contributed to the community with her warm spirit and commitment to excellence.

Dawn received her early education at Lakeside School in Hot Springs, Arkansas, before graduating from Cedar Hill High School in Texas. Education was important to her, as was the joy of nurturing her family and friends. She was immensely proud of her sons, daughters, and all of her grandchildren, who were the centerpiece of her life. Dawn’s love for her pets was equally profound; her dogs were like her children, with her beloved puppy, Shelby, serving as her best friend and companion.

Dawn was a creative individual who enjoyed decorating her home, transforming spaces with her unique touch and vision. Her vibrant personality touched the lives of many, and she will be remembered for her kindness, creativity, and genuine love for her family and friends.

She is survived by her parents, Melvin and Wanda Fecher of Hot Springs, Arkansas; her sister, Tonya Fecher of Hot Springs, Arkansas; her son and daughter-in-law, Aaron and Natasha Sanchez of Forreston, Texas; and her son, Adam Sanchez Jr. of Mesquite, Texas. All who knew her will miss her dearly.

A memorial service in her honor will be held on January 20, 2025, at Change Point Pregnancy Center,  201 Nickels in Hot Springs, Arkansas, beginning at 2:00 PM. The family invites those who were touched by Dawn's life to join them in celebrating her memory.