Hugo Black Bates “the Bubble Gum Man”, 83 of Athens, passed away on Monday, January 4, 2021 at Athens Limestone Hospital. Mr. Bates was born August 24, 1937 to Eddie Ruth Johnson Bates and Lewis David Bates.
He is survived by his wife of 62 years, Billie Sue Bates; son, Houston O. Bates (Debra); daughters, Suzanne Bates Sims (Brian) and June Bates Hobbs (Terry); brothers, Buddy Bates (Patsy) and Donald Bates (Dorothy); sister, Dorothy Weathers; grandchildren, Leigh Ellen Hobbs, Lindsay Sims, Ethan Hobbs (Krystal) and Andrew Sims (Ashley); great grandchildren, Elliot Rose Hobbs and Ruth Ann Sims.
There will be a private graveside service held at Roselawn Cemetery officiated by Bill Irby.
Pallbearers will be his family.
In lieu of flowers the family has requested that donations be made to the Limestone Bible Camp, 18378 Red Tail Street, Athens, AL 35613, Athens City Schools Foundation at www.acsf.acs.k12.org, Athens Bible School, 700 US Hwy 31 North, Athens, AL 35611 or to the charity of your choice.
