Richard Donald Oates

Richard Donald Oates, 79, a beloved father, grandfather, and friend of many, of Americus, GA, went to be with the Lord on August 2nd, 2024.

He was born in Americus, GA on February 10th, 1945 to Carl E. Oates and Mildred Wellons Oates. He graduated from Plains High School in 1963 and attended South Georgia Technical College where he earned a degree in Electrical Engineering. He was a lifelong member of Shiloh Baptist Church. Richard spent his childhood years working on the farm with his father, and then went on to serve in the Georgia National Guard. Following this, he went on to work at Sumter EMC as an Apparatus Technician for 43 years.

Richard was preceded in death by his parents, sisters, Vivian Oates Cox and Joan Oates, daughter, Leah Alice Oates, and spouse, Annette Wainwright. He is survived by his son, Jason (Vicki) Oates, and his grandchildren, Tristan J. Massey, Sarah Oates Brandt, Branden C. Massey, and Mark O. McNaney.

Richard found joy in the simple pleasures of life, especially spending time on his cherished farm by the Muckalee Creek. He loved spending time with his children and grandchildren and teaching them the skills of his favorite pastime, fishing. Richard found great joy in being surrounded by his family, friends, and his dog, Foxy. Richard was a jack of all trades and could fix just about anything. He was a loyal friend and loved those around him abundantly. Richard never failed to put the needs of others before his own and always took the time to enjoy the simple moments with those around him that he loved most. He will be missed by many family members and friends, but the love and wisdom that he left in the hearts of others will be carried with them for a lifetime.

The family will receive friends for visitation, Sunday, August 4th, from 5:00PM to 7:00PM at Hancock Funeral Home, 427 S. Lee Street.

The funeral will be held at Shiloh Baptist Church, 961 Shiloh Road, on Monday, August 5th at 2:00PM. The family will receive guests after the service at his son’s house, 293 Tallent Store Road.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that memorial contributions be made to Shiloh Baptist Church.

To sign our online guestbook and express your condolences to the family, please visit www.hancockfuneralhomeinc.com 

Hancock Funeral Home, 427 S. Lee St., is honored to be entrusted with these arrangements for Mr. Richard Oates.