Anasthacia Nichole “Nikki” Cates

Anasthacia Nichole “Nikki” Cates
January 21, 1980- August 16, 2025

Nikki is remembered as a kind and quiet person who was always willing to help others. With ambitions of joining the Peace Corps as a teen, to adopting countless rescue animals, and even opening her home to friends and family in need. In her final act of kindness Nikki helped save five other lives across the country by way of organ donation.

Nikki will join her mother Donna “Brandi” Cates in eternal life. They are fondly remembered laughing in the living room surrounded by their beloved pets.

She is survived by her brother John Michael Cates; her sister-in-law Avery Boone Cates; and her two nephews John Patrick “JP” Cates & Conor Ciarán Cates, who is due in December. As well as her sister Heidi Rae McKinney; two nieces Charli Rose & Emery Mae McKinney; and nephew Robert Holden McKinney.

A celebration of life will be held at William B. Umstead Park in Raleigh, NC on September 13th at 3 PM at the Crabtree Shelter #2. To honor Nikki’s extensive love for animals we welcome leashed and friendly dogs to help us celebrate.

Our family asks that you remember Nikki and help keep her spirit alive by helping others in any way possible. In lieu of flowers please consider donating to the Saving Grace Animal Rescue or any local animal rescue in her name.

https://savinggracenc.org/