Eugene Bates

Eugene Bates was born November 16, 1937 in Atlanta, Georgia. He was the fourth child born to the late Irvin Jack and Mattie Bates. He received his wings on October 20, 2018.

Gene, as he was so fondly known, was an early provider for his three siblings after the passing of his mother.

Gene was educated in the Atlanta Public Schools System and, as an adult, furthered his education and received numerous certificates from Dale Carnie Schools.

Gene united in holy matrimony with Barbara Bates on November 2, 1959, and they were together in this union until her passing on June 10, 2017. Three children were born to their union; son, Gregory Bernard Bates (who preceded them in death), and daughters, Valerie Bates and Pamela Bates Battle.

Gene was lead foreman at United States Gypsum Company. He retired after twenty years of service. He was in his early forties and full of energy to pursue entrepreneurship. He was owner and operator of many businesses, including The Kokomo Lounge, Kennedy Street Game Room and Grill. He owned and operated a turnkey paint company until his first illness.

Gene was the provider for his family, never ceasing to lavish them with support and gifts throughout his lifetime. He loved his wife, children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, his brothers and sister, and many nieces and nephews. He was an example to all of them of what it was to be a loving provider.

Early in Gene’s life he accepted Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior and joined Woodward Baptist Church. His final service at church was at Light of Life Ministries, under the leadership of Bishop Troy until his passing.

Gene leaves to cherish his memories his two daughters, Valerie Bates and Pamela Bates Battle; six grandchildren, Dr. Sherrita Farley, Quantrez Wideman (Veronica), Darius Fudge, Shanice Bates, Ray Battle Jr., and Rashinda Melody Shade; two great-grandchildren, Kiérra Shanay Farley and Preston LaDarius Fudge (mom, Latorya); one sister who loved him dearly, Margaret Bates Tucker; sisters-in-law, Sheila Hester Gatlin, Sallie G. Harris, and Corine Bates; brothers-in-law, J.C. Gatlin, and Roscoe Williams; and a host of nieces, nephews, and friends.

Celebration of Life Service will be held Wednesday, October 24th, 2018, 12:00 pm, at Woodward Baptist Church 1109 Hollywood Road Atlanta, Georgia 30318. Interment Lincoln Cemetery.

Public Viewing will be Tuesday, October 23rd, 2018 12:00 pm until 8:00 pm at Herschel Thornton Mortuary 3346 Martin Luther King Jr. Drive SW Atlanta, Georgia 30331.