George Allen Bates

Candler George Allen Bates, 72, of 29 English Drive, went to sleep on Wednesday, December 9, 2015 at the John F. Keever, Jr. Solace Center until called home by his Heavenly Father. A native of Buncombe County, he was a Paint Contractor, a US Army veteran having served in Germany during the Vietnam era and was a member and Deacon of Arden SDA Church. Mr. Bates was the son of Helen Marie Melton Bates of Candler and the late George Washington Bates, Jr. He was also preceded in death by his sister, Sharon Zalabak. Surviving in addition to his mother are his wife, Cristina Iraida Cris Ayala Bates of the home; children, Jacqueline Jasmine Briggs (Keith) of Candler, Yevette Suzette Ray (Mark) of Franklin, George Luis Bates (Stephanie) of Gladys, VA and Michael Anthony Bates of Candler; grandson, Austin Keith Briggs and sisters, Yvonne Fowler (Murel) of Apex, Annice Bates and Janice Bates both of Candler. Funeral services will be held at 11 AM Sunday, December 13, 2015 in the chapel of Anders-Rice Funeral Home with Pastor Eric Bates officiating. Burial will follow in Oak Hill UMC Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 4 to 6 PM Saturday at the funeral home.