Pete Bates

Riley “Pete” Edward Bates Jr. of John Ward Rd., died Monday Nov. 10, 2008 after being in declining health for two years. A graveside service with Military rites will be held 11:00 AM Tuesday, November 11 in the Lexington City Cemetery, with Rev. Jeffrey Purdue officiating. He was born on June 3, 1917 in Davidson County to Riley E. Bates and Bessie Ree Everhart Bates. He was a veteran of the Second World War and fought in the European theatre of conflict. Pete was also enamored with his days in the U.S. Army under General Patton’s command. His company was a part of the European campaign that spelled the end of Hitler. Several years ago, he acquired an army cot to sleep on as he did in the early 40’s. He was nostalgic about the war and the memories he held so close. Pete was retired from Coble Dairy and Wellington Hall Furniture. He was a member of the First Reformed United Church of Christ. In addition to his parents, preceding him in death were brothers, Charles, Brantley, Baxter Bates, and his sister Frances Bates Tetter. Pete was a gentle friend to all and a loving brother. He was especially close to his sister Martha and her husband Clyde Moore. He was also a father figure to the children of that marriage. During the majority of his life, Pete and Clyde were inseparable in the garden, which fed the whole family, or in the furniture manufacturing plant where both men worked. The two also repaired furniture as a sideline and kept a backlog of customers most all seasons. In remembering Pete, one recalls the red-factor canaries that he bred in his air-conditioned building. He loved tropical birds and dogs. He maintained close friends until his last years, and sorely missed his best friend Clyde when he passed away several years ago. Surviving are his brothers, Thomas and his wife, Frances, as well as Donald and his wife, Peggy, his sisters, Martha Moore and Betty Tussey and her husband Billy. Also surviving are numerous nieces and nephews, and many friends and acquaintances. Memorials in Pete’s memory may be sent to Clearview Baptist Church, 37 Robbins Circle, Lexington, NC 27292.