MELISSA "MISSY" MAY (ROUSE) GATES

Melissa “Missy” May Rouse 46 of Douglas, Wyoming passed away peacefully at home surrounded by her family on Wednesday, April 30, 2025, after a long and hard-fought battle with brain cancer. Known for her warm heart, sense of humor, and courage. Melissa lived a great life full of compassion and grace.

Melissa was born on Monday, August 7, 1978, to Hank Eugene and Donna May (Harrison) Rouse in Rawlins, Wyoming. After Melissa graduated from Farson High School in 1996 she went on to marry Jason Gates. They had three children, Mac, Mason, and Katelyn. After moving around and living as a military wife she made the decision to move closer to her parents. She went on to have two more children, Madilyn and McKenna Moon. All her children meant the world to her.

Melissa gave the best hugs and told the best jokes. She had a wicked sense of humor and made people smile even if she did not know them.

Though we ache with her absence, we chose to carry her spirit forward by living with the love and joy she shared with everyone.

She is survived by her loving parents, Hank and Donna Rouse of Douglas; two brothers, Eric (Tara) Rouse and Todd Rouse both of Douglas; her five children, Mac (Hannah) Gates of Mississippi, Mason Gates of Douglas, Katelyn Gates of Palmdale, California, and Madilyn and McKenna Gillio of Douglas; her two nieces, Jordan Rouse of Douglas and Kaylee Rouse of Douglas; her nephew, Michael Rouse of Douglas; and many more relatives and friends who adored her. Each of us carries a piece of her spirit in our hearts.

Melissa was preceded in death by her paternal and maternal grandparents.

A celebration of Melissa’s life will be held on Friday May 9, 2025, at Gorman Funeral Homes – Converse Chapel at 2:00 P.M. with Pastor Brad Motter officiating.

We invite everyone who knew her to join us in honoring the light she brought into our lives. Please feel free to wear pink, grey, or anything that makes you feel comfortable. A reception will follow at the Samuel Mares American Legion Post #8, 101 South Sixth Street, Douglas, Wyoming.

Though she has left this world, Melissa will never leave our hearts. Her laughter, her love, and her light will guide us always.

Rest gently, sweet Missy. You were, and will always be, our brightest star.

            In lieu of flowers, memorials to Stella Strong in care of Converse County Bank, P.O. Box 689, Douglas, Wyoming 82633 would be appreciated by the family.

           The Gorman Funeral Homes-Converse Chapel of Douglas, Wyoming is in charge of the arrangements.

            Condolences may be sent to the family at www.gormanfh.com

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of MELISSA "MISSY" MAY (ROUSE) GATES, please visit our floral store.