Edward Franklin Oates

Edward, affectionately known as Frank, age 85, of East Norriton, Pennsylvania, passed on June 25, 2025

Frank was born in Sheffield, Alabama on March 26, 1940 to John Oates and Alice (Watkins) Oates. Frank migrated to Philadelphia at the age of 17 and where he spent most of his life.

He was educated in the Alabama public school system and attended Sterling High School. Frank worked as a head bartender for the private clubs located at the Philadelphia sports centers for 32 years. Frank also co-owned and operated several businesses including Wiley's lounge and a 5&10 store. Frank's work ethic and tenacity is part of the legacy that his children have cherished and emulated.

Upon his retirement in 2004, Frank spent countless hours doing what he loved the most, which was spending quality time with his family and friends, riding his bike for miles through age 83, and walking right up to 2 weeks preceding his death.

Throughout Frank's adult life, he passionately enjoyed sports. He had a special affection for softball for which he was a pitcher for IAA leagues through age 72. Frank loved spending time with his children, grandchildren, and the children he "adopted" throughout the neighborhood. Taking them to the park, bike riding, amusement parks and the like.

Frank was a loving husband to his wife and partner for 64 years. He was also a dedicated father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend to many who crossed his path. Frank was known as the families self-proclaimed comedian, where he would tell numerous jokes and childhood stories, even if many of his stories were often a bit exaggerated. No matter how many times the joke or the story was told, you could always count on hysterical laughter from whomever was listening. These attributes and more are what contributes to his legacy of life, love, and family.

Frank will be missed and never forgotten. The memories of his contagious love for people will remain in our hearts forever. His legacy will live on. When his wife, children, and grandchildren told him that they loved him, he would respond with a heartwarming, "I love you more." These are the words that will be echoed from generation to generation.

Frank was preceded in death by his Parents: John and Alice Oates; Siblings: John, Andrew, Robert, Minnie Mae, Bill, Amanda, Patrick, and Patricia, Son: Clarence Gore Jr., and Grandson: Anthony Pressley. He leaves to cherish his memories and legacy: Wife: Gail Gore-Oates; Children: Anthony Van Gore, Gail Michelle Plant (Rock), and Debonair Oates-Primus; Daughter-in-law: Ellen Gore; Grandchildren: Derek Daniels, Rhashon Hamilton, Malik Hamilton, LaTasha Pressley, Sanahji Plant, Zoraya Plant, Jaylah Plant, and 15 great grandchildren; Brothers: Bruce Oates (Sheila), Oliver Oates (Mildred); Brothers and Sisters In-Laws: Edwin (Dibbs) Mead, Fred Butler (Mae), Clem Connelley, Artis Butler, Burn Butler, Marvin Butler, Hazel Butler; Special Friends: Charles Wiley and Victor Perry; Honorary Daughters: DeSharne Gibson and Connie Burton; Willits Road Crew: Raymond, Izzy, Jean, and Flo; and a host of nieces, nephews, and many more close friends.

He will be truly missed by all.

Lovingly Submitted, The Family

In lieu of flowers the family requests that donations be made to TLC of the People using their website https://tlcforthepeople.org/donate/

Memorial Donation