Teka Nichole McDowell, age 26, passed away Friday, January 3, 2020, at her residence in Coldwater.

Born April 20, 1993, in Coldwater, Teka is survived by her mother, Regina Howard, father, Kim Gates, grandmother, Joice Gates, sisters, Shelby (Tyler) Patterson and MaKayla Gates, all of Celina, and a brother, Teddy L. Gates, of St. Marys. Seven nieces & nephews: Landon, Logan, Melina, Sophia, RJ, Liam, and Owen, and many aunts, uncles, and cousins, also survive.

Preceding her in death were grandparents: Paula & Earl "Colonel" Howard and Ted Gates, uncles: Mike and Danny Gates, and three cousins.

Teka attended programs at CA Group and Benchmark Human Services. Always ready with a smile for everyone, Teka expressed joy at simple things like dipping into the cake icing, and listening to country music. Teka loved being out and about among people, and especially enjoyed babies. She loved being with her family and friends.

Calling Hours will be held at W.H. Dick & Sons-Hellwarth Funeral Home in Celina, from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 Noon, Tuesday, January 7, with Services to begin immediately following at Noon. Pastor Rick Brosher will officiate. Burial will be at Mercer Memory Gardens, Celina.

Memorial Contributions may be made to help assist the family with funeral expenses.

Condolences can be expressed at dickandsonshellwarthfh.com.