Obituary

Fernie Lamar Bates

July 08, 1942 - September 02, 2021

Fernie Lamar Bates, age 79, left this earth to be with his Lord on September 2, 2021. Born July, 8, 1942, he was a resident of Kentwood, La and lived his entire life in St. Helena Parish. 

He married his wife, Carolyn McNabb Bates, on November 24, 1961 and was married to her for 57 years. He retired from the Louisiana Department of Transportation after being employed with them for nearly thirty years. He was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather, and a friend to many. Some of his favorite past times were sitting on the porch drinking coffee with friends and running rabbit and fox dogs. There is no doubt that he has been reunited with his beautiful wife in his heavenly home. 

He was preceded in death by his wife, Carolyn McNabb Bates; parents, Herman and Lillie Belle Frazier Bates; siblings, Dorothy Bates Day, Vera Bates Allatto, and infant brother J.W. Bates. 

He is survived by his two sons, Timothy and wife Laura, Johnny and wife Maria; three grandchildren Barrett (Becky), Lance (Kortnie), and Chelsea; five great grandchildren, Alyvia, John David, Kynlie, Rylee, and Cooper; and numerous nieces, nephews, and friends. 

Graveside Services will be held at New Zion Cemetery, Kentwood, LA at 3:00PM Monday, September 6, 2021. Services conducted by Rev. Bill Galloway and Rev. Donnie Easley. 

McKneely Funeral Home, Kentwood, in charge of arrangements.