Our Story
A family story told in four chapters
Nearly two centuries of documented history — from Chickasaw County, Mississippi to North Omaha, Nebraska.
Chapter One
The First Roots
Joshua James Gates and Emiline Gates established the earliest documented roots of our family's story in Mississippi. They began a legacy that would continue for generations through faith, perseverance, and the hope of building a better future.
Chapter Two
Growing Through Generations
Through Edward "Ned" Gates, Ellen Roland Gates, Mary Sue Gates, Godfrey Sawyer, and Daisy Mae Livingston, our family's story continued across Mississippi and Arkansas. Every generation added another branch to the family tree, carrying forward resilience, responsibility, and love for family.
Chapter Three
A New Beginning
Mary Brooks brought another generation into the world. Her daughters—Liz, Tara, and Angelique—continued the family's story through strength, compassion, and determination.
Chapter Four
Building a Legacy
Angelique Burns raised Alexis Burns in Omaha, Nebraska, passing down the values of family, perseverance, and community. Together, Alexis Burns and her son, A'Ron Burns, established The Burns Family Foundation to preserve the family's legacy and create opportunities that will benefit future generations.
“The story does not end with us. It simply reaches the next generation.”