Gus McCarley Slater, Jr. age 77, died at Decatur General Hospital on Friday, July 18, 2014 peacefully with family and friends by his side. Born December 31, 1936 in Morgan County to Beulah Williams and Gus McCarley Slater Sr. He attended and Graduated from Cataco High School.
He was married to Alice Gertrude Hinnant until her death on June 20, 1993.
Gus Jr. was involved in sports and civic organizations from softball with his daughters to baseball and football with his son, and was an avid ballplayer himself. Another passion he had was Racing. He started in drag racing which led him to roundtrack then to go-kart racing.
Mr. Slater was employed at 3M of Decatur and then moved to Saginaw Steering – GM where he retired.
He also was owner of the small engine and Go-Kart shop, Bama Racing.
Gus will be known for his love of family and friends, and of course, Auburn football.
He is survived by his wife, Ann Knighten Slater of 20 years, from Hartselle.
Children, Teresa Cryer (Glenn) of Somerville, Gus Slater III, (Heidi) of Athens, Tammy Lee Steadman and Special Friend of Somerville. Michelle Maxwell (Bryan) of Decatur. Brittany Slater of Decatur and Son in Law, Junior Collins of Hillsboro.
He is Survived by a host of Nieces, nephews, Grandchildren and Great Grandchildren. He was a second father to good friend , Danny Copeland, Niece Dana Lynn Crow and Grandson, Braxton McKinley Seversin.
Mr. Slater was preceded in death by Son in law, Randy Steadman, daughter, Melissa Collins and Grandson, Trey Collins.
Brothers, Olney B, Olin D, William Boyd and Owen C. Slater.
Funeral Service for Mr. Slater will be 11:00 a.m. – Monday July 21, 2014 at Peck funeral Home Chapel. Burial will follow in the Shiloh Baptist Church Cemetery. Visitation will be Sunday from 3:00 p.m. until 6:00 p.m. at Peck Funeral Home.
Gus was a great Husband, Father, Grandfather, Uncle and Friend that will always be in the hearts of all.
When you hear thunder and see lightening, just know it is Gus racing around the streets of Gold and more than likely carrying the checkered flag!
