BORN
1966
DIED
2017
David Ates Obituary
1966 ~ 2017
Gautier
Mr. David Charles Ates, age 51, who grew up in Gautier, MS, passed away on Tuesday, October 10, 2017, at his residence in Atlanta, GA.
David was a graduate of Pascagoula High School and received his undergraduate degree with honors from Millsaps College, Jackson, MS. While at Millsaps he was awarded the John C. Stennis Scholar of Distinction Award. He graduated from Emory University, Atlanta, GA, with a degree in law and practiced in Atlanta for 27 years, concentrating on civil rights and employment law.
David never forgot his beloved Gulf Coast. He was in constant touch with his classmates and friends of the coast. He loved to visit and to laugh and to talk about good times. He was a gentle, kind man who saw the good in everyone. He will be sorely missed.
Survivors include his beloved daughter, Ashley Ates, parents, C.L. and Diane Ates, brothers, Steve (Lori) and John (Kerry), nieces, Kristin, Alyssa, and Lilyan Ates and nephews, Steven, William, and Calton Ates. His daughter, Ashley, was his pride and joy and together they made a team and had wonderful times. His one wish was that she grow up to be a caring, loving person and she is well on her way to that goal.
Visitation will be on Saturday, October 28, from 2:30 p.m. until 3:30 p.m., with a 3:30 p.m. Memorial Service, all at the Ocean Springs Chapel of Bradford O'Keefe Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers the family requests donations, in David's name, be made to The Nourishing Place, 606 Tennessee Street, Gulfport, MS, 39501.
View and sign register book at www.bradfordokeefe.com
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Margaret (Rob, Lana) Powers
October 18, 2025
My family remembers David Ates as a humble and kind gentleman. Highly intelligent, witty, and always willing to help others. Dear C.L. & Diane, we will all see David, again, as we, too, will be carried away by God's Angels. Prayers for you and your family because I know how much you miss him.
Margaret Powers
January 17, 2024
As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life's routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends. Prayers to you all - so very sorry for your loss.
October 29, 2017
My sincere Sympathy and Love to David's family and friends. A Tragic Loss.
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Johnny & Debi Fairchild
October 23, 2017
We are with you in our thoughts & prayers.
Rodney Rountree
October 23, 2017
CL, my deepest sympathies,
Rodney Rountree
KA '60 USM '63
Elouise Klavon
October 21, 2017
David was a good student in my junior high English class. Always helpful. He was full of fun and full of life. I remember the times he played soccer with Bud, in good weather and bad. He was a good athlete. Diane and C.L. , Gene's, Bud's, and my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this difficult time. I know what you're going through as I have been there myself. I have thought of you both so much these last few days and I pray that God will give you comfort, peace and strength for each new day. You're in my thoughts, prayers, and in my heart. David will be greatly missed by all those who knew and loved him.
Jennifer Gleason
October 18, 2017
David was such a kind soul and was always gracious towards me. I always think of him when I hear the Grateful Dead. My prayers are for his family.
The Staff and Management of Bradford O'Keefe Funeral Homes
October 22, 2017
We extend our sincere sympathy and value your trust during this time of remembrance and reflection. We pledge our support now and in the future.
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