Robert Bates, 83, passed away on September 23, 2012 at a local medical center in Abilene. Funeral services will be 10:00a.m., Wednesday, September 26, 2012 at Elliott-Hamil Funeral Home Chapel of Faith, 5701 Hwy 277 South, with Rev. James King and Rev. Larry Baird officiating. Burial will follow in Elmwood Memorial Park Cemetery, directed by Elliott-Hamil Funeral Home. Visitation will be Tuesday evening from 6 to 8p.m. at the funeral home.
Robert was born on November 7, 1928 to Robert Lee and Lela Mae Bone Bates in Stamford, Texas. He attended school and later served in the United States Marine Corp. Robert married Novalene Raughton on December 18, 1952. He worked as a salesman for West Texas Wholesale Supply Co. for 37 years and also for Bible Hardware for 12 years.
Robert loved people and he never met a stranger. He attended Grace Tabernacle Church, loved his Lord, and read his bible and prayed every night. Robert also loved and used to raise miniature donkeys.
Preceding him in death were his parents; and one brother, Edgar Lee Bates.
Survivors include his wife, Novalene Bates of Abilene; his son, Tony Bates of Clyde; his sister, Dottie Lou Southern of Mesquite; and two grandchildren, Ryan and Cody Bates.
You may view and sign the guestbook at www.elliott-hamil.com
