Billy Gordon Oates

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Billy Gordon Oates, Sr., who departed this life on September 27, 2025, at Forsyth Medical Center in Winston Salem, North Carolina. Born on October 20, 1952, in Chatham County, North Carolina, Billy graced us with nearly 73 years of warmth, love, and dedication.

Billy spent his career as a devoted sawmill operator, demonstrating hard work and perseverance. Outside of his professional life, he found joy in the great outdoors, especially through hunting and fishing. His adventurous spirit was evident in his love for riding ATVs, often traveling to West Virginia to enjoy side-by-sides and four-wheelers.

A family man above all, Billy cherished the moments he spent with his grandchildren. He also enjoyed watching high school wrestling and baseball, sharing his enthusiasm for sports with those he loved.

Billy was preceded in death by his beloved parents, Vernon Rufus and Ruby Harris Oates, as well as his brother, Randall Oates. He leaves behind a loving family who will continue to honor his memory: his sons, David Oates of McLeansboro, IL, and Billy Oates, Jr., of Bear Creek, NC; his daughter, Alisha Kaye of Bennett, NC; his brothers, Tim Oates of Mebane, NC, and Ricky Oates of Bennett, NC.

Billy's legacy continues through his cherished grandchildren: Destiny Oates Moffitt, Blake Oates, Hunter Oates, Fisher Oates, Farrah Oates, Jamie Crabtree, Trevor Crabtree, Amanda Crabtree, Katie Crabtree, Bradley Thompson, and Christopher Cagle. He was also blessed with great-grandchildren Ashton Thompson, Waylon Oates, Weston Oates, Clifton Moffitt, and Kaysie Willette.

The family will hold a celebration of remembrance at a later date to honor Billy's life and the countless ways he touched those around him.

Billy Gordon Oates, Sr. will be dearly missed by all who knew him. His memory will forever remain in the hearts of his family and friends. Midstate Cremation & Funeral Service in Asheboro is honored to assist the family of Mr. Billy Oates, Sr.