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Ellis Bates Obituary

Ellis Eugene Bates, known by most as "Gene," passed away peacefully on Oct. 28, 2025, in Valrico, Florida, at the age of 87. Born on May 5, 1938, in Sarahsville, Ohio, Gene lived a life marked by deep devotion to family, and a love of music and baseball.

Eugene was the beloved son of the late Alfred Walton Bates and Alice Edna Carter Bates. He was preceded in death by his sister, Nancy Carol. He is survived by his beloved wife of 66 years, Elva; his brother, Alfred "Bill" William Bates; his sons, Stephen Eugene Bates (Rose) and Scott Ellis Bates (Lisa); grandchildren; and great-grand children.

A proud graduate of Martinsville High School, Gene ran track and played basketball. A private family gathering will be held to honor his memory.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by News Journal from Nov. 10 to Nov. 11, 2025.

Memories and Condolences
for Ellis Bates

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3 Entries

Single Memorial Tree

Dan & Marlene Dowler

Planted Trees

Dan Dowler

November 13, 2025

Sorry to hear of my best friend's death. May he now rest in peace.
Dan & Marlene Dowler

THE FAMILY OF RAY AND EDNA WALLS

November 11, 2025

OUR CONDOLENCES IN THE PASSING OF GENE. SO MANY SPECIAL MEMORIES OF THE WALLS BATES FAMILIES. MAY MEMORIES BRING YOU COMFORT.

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