Gates died in Paris, France on August 9, 1911, following an unsuccessful operation to remove a throat tumor. His funeral was held on August 23, 1911 in the ballroom of the Plaza Hotel in New York; Gates had provided the funding for the construction of the hotel. Gates' mourners had come from all parts of the country; three floors of the Plaza Hotel were reserved for those attending his services. A large delegation arrived from Texas, where Gates had done much for the city of Port Arthur.