Douglas Lee Bates was born October 1, 1959, and passed away on September 14, 2024, at the age of 65. He was born in Bluefield, W.Va., and passed away peacefully at home in Statesville, N.C.

He was preceded in death by his parents, James Royster Bates and Nita Saleem Bates; and one brother, Lacy Brown Sutherland.

He is survived by his loving wife of 45 years, Ruth Ann Bates; one daughter, Melissa Bates Matthews, and spouse Matthew Gaither of Olin, N.C.; one son, Adam Bates, and spouse, Nicole of Statesville, N.C.; and one stepson, Troy Perdue of Bluefield, W.Va. He is also survived by four grandchildren, Joshua Beckett, Taylor Bates, Zackary Matthews, and Brian Perdue; and one great granddaughter, arriving December 2024.

He loved spending time with his family and friends. He owned and operated his own HVAC company for 30 years. He will be dearly missed and loved forever. He loved camping, fishing, and spending time outdoors. There was nothing he couldn’t fix. He always said, “if there’s a problem, I will find the solution.”

There are no services planned at this time per his wishes.

Troutman Funeral Home is serving the family.