On November 8th, 2025, our beloved mother and grandmother, Calla Gates, passed away at the young age of 90. Calla was an incredibly strong woman, raising her 3 cherished daughters, Kathy, Susan and Valerie as a single mom and homeowner while working at Redington Fairview Hospital in medical records. She had to walk to work in the early years as she didn't have a license until she was almost 30. Calla was happiest when she was surrounded by family and some of her best years were spent at the house on the hill, in Gardiner, with her children and grandchildren gathering for days spent in the garden and by the pool. If Calla's happiest years were spent in Gardiner, her most fun years were spent in Port Orange, Florida where she moved after retiring from the Maine Human Rights Commission. She lived close to her very special sister, Marilyn, and they had a close group of friends that enjoyed being near the beach, having driveway parties and lots of nights out dancing. Her family joked that she was reliving her teenage years. Calla loved walking outdoors, reading, soaking up the sun, and most of all, being with her family. She was a feisty matriarch, always making sure the people she loved knew just how much they meant to her and what she believed was best for them. She leaves behind a beautiful legacy of love. Calla was predeceased by her parents, all four of her siblings, and two deeply loved grandsons. She is survived by her three adored daughters, six grandchildren, thirteen great-grandchildren, and three great-great-grandchildren. The family extends heartfelt thanks to the staff at Woodlands Assisted Living, Lakewood Skilled and Long-Term Care, and Northern Light Hospice for the kindness, compassion, and exceptional care given to Calla in her final years and days. We will be forever grateful. A Celebration of Life will be held on Friday, November 14th at 1:00 p.m. at the Somerset Valley Remembrance Center, 19 Washburn Lane, Skowhegan. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to Northern Light Hospice.