He was a retired boat plant engineer and was of the Baptist faith. Gerald had many interests, but his favorite hobby was drag racing.
He is survived by his loving wife of 46 years, Vicky Ramsey Bates of Monticello; three stepchildren, Wayne Uloth Bates of Arizona, Dennis Lee Bates and Mandy Michelle Bates Reaves both of Florida; five grandchildren, Taylor Ann Bates, Samantha Reaves, Jarrod Bates, Nova Bates and Cora Bates; along with several cousins and other relatives.
Funeral services will be 10:00 a.m. Tuesday, December 24, 2024, at Stephenson-Dearman Funeral Home Chapel. Burial in Campground Cemetery will follow. There will be a visitation Monday afternoon from 2:00-4:00 p.m. at the funeral home. You can sign Gerald's guestbook registry on this page.
Condolences(17)
Bobby Free
Sherrill, AR Tuesday, December 31, 2024 Dennis , Mandy,.......Sorry to hear mm about this news hope you're family is doing well. been a long time it has a way of getting away from us. my heart is with y'all .....BobbyKaren Brown
Wilmar, AR Tuesday, December 24, 2024 Dear Vicky, I hated to see this. We’ve been meet at Walmart friends for years and years. My heart goes out to you..Kay Worbington
Monticello, AR Monday, December 23, 2024 Vicky and family, I am sorry about your great loss! You have my prayers and sympathy. Gerald was one of the good guys who I knew since he was a young child. He & my brother were in the same highschool class. Prayers of comfort at this sad time!!Jim stewart
Monticello, AR Monday, December 23, 2024 You to have been just like parents to me,they’re aren’t word to say how sorry I am.love ya ,my prayers are with yaBridgette Martin -freeman
Monticello, AR Monday, December 23, 2024 Ms. Vicky I am sending prayers to you and your family, I will truly miss my friend,Love youSharon Shook McIntyre
Monticello, AR Monday, December 23, 2024 Vicky I am so sorry about Gerald. I had known him since we were kids him being a year behind me in school. He & I always talked wherever we saw each other & after you all met & were married the three of us would visit. My thoughts & prayers are with you. May you find comfort from our Lord Jesus. Sincerely, SharonCliff Gibson
Monticello, AR Monday, December 23, 2024 Gerald was a good friend and neighbor to me and my family for many years, and will be sorely missed. The world will be a poorer place without Gerald, but heaven will be much improved. Vickie, you have our heartfelt condolences on your loss. Cliff Gibson.Andrew "Andy" Briant
Monticello, AR Sunday, December 22, 2024 Vicky and family: prayers for your peace and comfort at this sad and difficult time. Gerald rest in peace my friend.Mark L Haynes
Mountain View, AR Sunday, December 22, 2024 Vickie, I am so sorry to hear about Gerald. Such a shock. May our Father in Heaven give you peace and comfort at this time.Rachelle M Reynolds
Monticello, AR Sunday, December 22, 2024 I just found out today .I'm so sorry for your loss.he was a very sweet friend and customer at Walmart who always stopped and talked me and put a smile on my face.Janie Rabb & Larry Fuller
Haymarket, VA Sunday, December 22, 2024 Vicki & FamilyI am so sorry to learn of Gerald’s passing.
He & I worked together at Monark back in 1984-86. Gerald was a real professional & his work was outstanding. It was an honor & privilege to work with & know him.
May God continue Blessing you all with comfort & understanding at this time of mourning.
Larry Fuller
Barbara A Burks Posey
Monticello, AR Sunday, December 22, 2024 Mrs. V ickie and family. So sorry to hear about Gerald. He and I were kin to each other. You and your family are in my prayers.Lori McCoy
Monticello, AR Sunday, December 22, 2024 Vicky, I am at a loss for words! I’ve never seen one of you without the other! I know you so lost right now and my heart breaks for you! Lean on God for strength and comfort! Know my heart goes out to you and if you need anything, please reach out! Many prayers for you in this time of sorrow. My love to you! RIL Gerald!Chuck Vining
MONTICELLO, AR Sunday, December 22, 2024 Vickie I just saw this my heart goes out to you !! I'm here . R.I.P. my friend until we meet againSherry O'Neill -Rawls
Monticello, AR Sunday, December 22, 2024 Vickie, Dennis, Michael, & family, I am so sorry to hear of your loss, especially here at Christmas. May God bless and comfort you during this difficult time of sorrow.Lois kellum
Monticello, AR Saturday, December 21, 2024 So sorry for your loss.Gerald was a good friend I knew all thru school.we would always say happy birthday to each other if we saw each other.Rest in peace and prayers.Autumn Lawrence
Monticello, AR Saturday, December 21, 2024 Sending my Condolences to Mrs Vicky and family Gerald will be miss very much in this lifetime he was so funny caring and loving and I’m sending love and hugs to you Mrs Vicky!!