Coty Ray Bales

Coty was a bright, loving soul who shined his light on everyone he came in contact with. He gave selflessly to those he cared about, and he loved hard those of us who were privileged enough to call him family. He always had a smile, and laugh, and a kind or joking word. But he would always put you at ease. His favorite three words, “I got this!” will forever remain in our hearts.

Coty Ray Bales, age 26, of Gaston South Carolina passed away on Monday, January 26, 2026.

Coty was born December 9, 1999, the son of Tammy and Donnie Bales.

Coty married his wife Chelsea on October 11, 2023 and were married two years. Coty was a truck driver for Old Dominion Freight line. Coty especially loved spending time with his wife and family, playing with his niece and nephew, working on his cars, and playing video games with his brother.

Remaining to cherish Coty’s memory are his wife Chelsea, his parents Tammy and Donnie, his Granny, his brother Cameron, his family, his best friends and cousins Jala Boyd & Austin Sherman and his mini best friends Taymen Sherman and Raelynn Boyd. He is also remembered by his friends.

Visitation will be held Saturday, February 7, 2026 at 12PM at 820 W. Dunbar Rd, W. Columbia, South Carolina, 29170.

Per the family’s request they ask that no one wears black or dress clothes. Wear your favorite outfit that you are most comfortable in and come celebrate Coty.