Robert Ernest Bates

Robert Ernest Bates, 79, went to his heavenly home on Sunday, November 5th, 2023.   He was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and a respected friend. He loved his Lord and his family with all of his heart. He was born in Barnesville, GA on January 25, 1944 to his parents, Clinton and Mary Woodard Bates.  A portion of his childhood was spent in Tampa, FL but he graduated high school at Milner High School in 1962.  On September 2, 1962, he married his sweetheart, Evelyn Lane.  He worked for Piggly Wiggly in Macon before he began working as a lineman for Lamar Electric Membership Corporation.  In 1969, Mr. Bates changed careers when he began working for the Georgia State Patrol.  He was initially stationed at Post #8 in Madison before being transferred to Lawrenceville and later to Post #25 in Thomson.  He obtained the rank of Trooper First Class.  In 1980, Mr. Bates began working for the Columbia County Sheriff’s Department where he rose to the rank of Lieutenant.  In 1985, Mr. Bates and his family moved back to their adopted home of Madison.  He was recruited by then Sheriff of Morgan County, Kenny Pritchett to assume the role of Supervisor of Road Patrol.  He continued his service to Morgan County, working as Lieutenant to current Sheriff, Robert Markley until he retired in 2004.

Robert Bates is survived by his wife, Evelyn Bates and two children, Timothy Clayton Bates and Tracy Loraine Bates Abbott.  He also leaves two grandchildren, Robert Clayton (Clay) Bates of Augusta and Lane Nicole (Nikki) Abbott of Madison.  Mr. Bates also leaves a sister, Peggy Bates York (Joe) as well as numerous cousins, nieces and nephews. 

The family will receive friends on Friday, November 10 from 11 AM until Noon at A.E. Carter Funeral Home.  The funeral service will be held at Noon in the chapel.  Interment will follow at the Madison City Cemetery.

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