Trace Randall Cates

Trace Randall Cates, age 39, of New Orleans, Louisiana, passed away Friday, July 25, 2025.

He was born in Ocean Springs and resided in New Orleans for the last 8 years. Trace graduated from Ocean Springs High School, attended Webster University in The Netherlands and he was currently enrolled at UNO to receive a bachelor’s degree in behavioral health. Trace was pursuing a dream of becoming a Social Worker. He was a parishioner at St. Patrick's Catholic Church in New Orleans. He enjoyed swimming, learning new languages, and was a student of world religions. Trace was devoted to his faith and remained a spiritual seeker throughout his life.

Trace is preceded in death by his loving grandparents, James and Teresa Cates and Thomas and Charlotte Cash; and his endearing aunt, Arlene Cates.

He will be deeply missed by his parents, Reid (MaryJo) Cates, Leslie Carol Cash; his sister, Shannon (Michael) Pope; his nephew, Robert Reid; his longtime partner and friend, Russ Rhodes; and his beloved cats, Myu Myu Wahjean and Mister; along with aunts, uncles and cousins that will miss him deeply.

Trace lived a vibrant life and still had so much ahead of him. He will be remembered for his infectious laughter and adventurous spirit. He will be cherished by all who knew him. Trace had a spirit of joy. To truly know him was to love him.

The family will forever treasure Trace's laughter, sense of humor and all the memories made. May his soul rest in eternal peace.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to be made to Catholic Charities of South Mississippi, St. Vincent de Paul or Bridgehouse/Gracehouse in New Orleans.

A funeral service will be held at 2:00pm on Saturday, August 2, 2025 at Bradford-O’Keefe Funeral Home, Ocean Springs. Friends may visit one hour prior.

Bradford-O’Keefe Funeral Homes is honored to serve the family of Trace Randall Cates.