Raleigh Aubrey Bates, a man of diverse talents and passions, journeyed through life with an unwavering spirit of adventure and curiosity. Born on September 23, 1940, in Brunswick, Georgia, he embarked on a life that would leave an indelible mark on those around him. His final chapter unfolded on May 10, 2024, in Trussville, Alabama, closing a narrative rich with experiences and cherished memories.
Raleigh’s formative years were shaped by his education and service to his country. He graduated from the Columbia Military Academy in Columbia, Tennessee, in 1959, laying the foundation for his future endeavors. In service to the United States Air Force from 1965 to 1968, Raleigh was stationed in the Philippines, where he dedicated himself to duty with honor and distinction.
Following his military service, Raleigh pursued his academic aspirations, earning an electrical engineering degree from the Florida Institute of Technology in 1973. This academic achievement opened doors to a fulfilling career as an electrical engineer. While he spent the majority of his professional life in this field, Raleigh’s entrepreneurial spirit led him to explore other ventures, including a stint as a home inspection business owner in the Atlanta, Georgia area. At the time of his retirement, he applied his skills as a database creator, leaving a legacy of innovation and expertise.
Beyond his professional pursuits, Raleigh found joy in a myriad of hobbies and interests. An avid wildlife photographer, he captured the beauty of the natural world through his lens, immortalizing fleeting moments in time. His love for travel manifested in adventures aboard his RV, where he explored new landscapes and forged lasting memories with loved ones. A skilled woodworker, Raleigh found solace in the artistry of crafting, transforming raw materials into works of beauty and utility. He nurtured a special fondness for the hummingbirds that frequented his backyard, ensuring they were always well-fed and cared for. Additionally, he embraced the thrill of kayaking and reveled in the serenity of nature’s waterways.
A passionate firearm enthusiast, Raleigh approached his hobby with reverence and respect, embodying the values of safety and responsibility. His commitment to his interests was surpassed only by his devotion to his family, who held a cherished place in his heart. Raleigh’s legacy lives on through his beloved wife, Victoria H. Bates; his daughter, Melissa Bates DeHollander; his sons, Alexander Raleigh Bates (Christine) and Edward Lee Bates (Genie); and his cherished grandchildren, Alric Scott Biegler, Alexandria Cecilia Bates, Nathaniel Raleigh Bates, and Hailey Christine Bates.
As loved ones gather to honor his memory, Raleigh will be laid to rest at Maple Hill Cemetery in Huntsville, Alabama, with graveside services held at 10:00 am on Sunday, May 19, 2024. In recognition of his generous spirit and commitment to others, donations to the charity of your choice are encouraged in lieu of flowers. Though his earthly journey has reached its conclusion, Raleigh’s spirit of adventure and passion for life will continue to inspire all who were fortunate enough to know him.
