Gerald Dean Bates, 76, Florence, passed away on Wednesday, February 19, 2020. Visitation will be held Friday, February 21, from 6:00 – 8:00 p.m., at Morrison Funeral Home, Central Heights. The funeral service will be at Collinwood Church of God on Saturday, February 22, at 1:00 p.m., with Jeff Davis, Nelson Moffett, and Tim Justice officiating. Mr. Bates will lie in repose from 12:00 – 1:00 p.m.
Mr. Bates was a lifelong resident of the Shoals. He was a loving husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather who enjoyed spending time with his family, especially going camping. He was preceded in death by his son, Little Jerry; his parents; two brothers; and two sisters.
Mr. Bates is survived by his loving wife of 58 years, Jane Bates; children, Dena Parrish, Tammy Balderas, and Jeremy Bates; brothers, George “Ronnie” Bates and Sam Bates; sister Wanda Bates; grandchildren, Jacob Winchester, Sam Winchester, Brooke Gray, Hannah Davis, Marisa Parrish, Tori Balderas, Brandi Parrish, and Maria Balderas; and great-grandchild, Raegan Davis.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the American Cancer Society.
