Lynn Gates

On Friday, January 9, 2026, surrounded by her family, Lynn Sundberg Gates left her earthly life for her eternal one with Christ. Lynn was born on October 14, 1940, to R.E. and Henrietta Sundberg and raised in Manor, Texas. Growing up, she spent most of her time with extended family including grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins, and dear friends. In 1958 she graduated from Manor High School as Valedictorian. She loved to visit with her Manor classmates, and helped maintain their media page until last October.

Lynn began her studies at Texas Lutheran College in Seguin but returned home to pursue a business career. She began her career working for a phone company in Austin. After moving to Corpus Christi, she entered the legal field where she truly excelled with wonderful mentors, a strong work ethic, and her intelligence. She treasured her time of over 40 years working in this field, beginning with Branscomb, Gary, Thomasson, and Hall, and retiring from Branscomb PC as Administrator. Lynn spent time in Corpus Christi, San Antonio, Uvalde, Carrizo Springs, Eagle Pass, and Austin due to the position she held. She maintained her connections and friendships with many of the attorneys and co-workers, even through her final days. Lynn participated in many activities outside of her career: as an active member at Trinity Lutheran Church and School in Corpus Christi, volunteering with the Texas Jazz Festival, serving as a docent at Heritage Park, and as a member of both South Texas Association of Legal Administrators (S.T.A.L.A.) and Corpus Christi Human Resource Management Association (CCHRMA).

After retiring in 2007, Lynn moved to Taylor and was active in rekindling and expanding her Kuempel and Pfluger family connections. She was excited to learn about and help the community of Taylor, so she joined Trinity Lutheran Church in Taylor, and served at Taylor Texas Chamber of Commerce, Cinderella’s Closet, and the Taylor Christmas Parade for many years. Additionally, as her grandchildren attended St. Paul Lutheran School in Thorndale, Lynn also loved participating in activities associated with the church and school.

Lynn is preceded in death by her parents and many treasured aunts, uncles, and cousins.

She is survived by her children; Tiffany & Jason Henry, Stephanie & Ron Churchman, Michael & Keti Gates; and her eight grandchildren: Emily, Sydnie, Wyatt, Dylan, Lily, Lukas, Elia, and Mateo. She is also survived by numerous first cousins and treasured friends. Her legacy of faith will live through generations.

Visitation will be held from 5:00-8:00 p.m. on Friday, January 16, 2026, at Providence Funeral Home, Taylor, TX. Her funeral service will be held Saturday, January 17, 2026, at 2 p.m. at New Sweden Lutheran Church, Manor, TX where she was baptized, confirmed, and married. Burial will follow immediately at New Sweden Lutheran Cemetery. Pastor Scott Schaller of Trinity Lutheran Church in Taylor will officiate over services.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Texas Jazz Festival (P.O. 424, Corpus Christi, TX 78403) or St. Paul Lutheran School (Attn. P.T.F., P.O. Box 369, Thorndale, TX 76577).