Otis Jermel Bates

Mr. Otis Jermel "Mel" Bates was born February 21, 1979 in Newberry, South Carolina to Christine Bates and the late Otis Caldwell.  He passed away on Friday, July 22, 2022.

Mel received his education in Newberry County Public School System.  He worked most of his adult life as a production worker.  He presently was employed at Samsung Home Appliance Manufacturing Plant in Newberry.

During his younger years Mel expressed a strong interest in drawing and other art.  He had a great sense of humor.  He also had a charming personality and a dynamic smile that could instantly light up a room.  He had a humble soul and well mannered.  Mel displayed a pleasant demeanor with children.  They enjoyed being surrounded by him and he with them.

Mel was predeceased by a sister, Tonjia Wilson; maternal grandparents, Curtis and Lizzie Bates and paternal grandparents, Bonnie and Gene Wilson.

Cherishing his memory is his dedicated beloved mother, Christine Bates; five daughters, Kennisha and Otisa Wright of Chapin, SC; Ariunna Bates of Batesburg, SC; Melody Bates of Prosperity, SC and Zymeasha McGraw of Newberry, SC; two sons, JhiQuan Wright of Newberry, SC and Elijah Bates Josey of Columbia, SC; brothers, Kenneth "KB' Bates (Demetria) and James "Dobo" Bates both of Newberry, SC; Lomas Davis of Whitmire, SC; Patrick Caldwell and Joseph Williams both of Newberry, SC; sisters, Stephanie Newman of Newberry, SC; Eureka "Reka" Bates of Atlanta, GA; Sabrina Caldwell of Fairfield, SC and Stephanie Davis (Randy) of Newberry, SC; step-sisters Tammy Workman (Dereco) and Shana Burton; God brother, Randy Bates; God sister, Letisha Yelverton; a host of uncles, aunts, nieces, nephews, cousins and other relatives and friends.

Funeral services will be conducted on Friday, July 29, 2022 at 1:00 PM at Bethlehem Baptist Church.  Burial will follow in Werts Cemetery. Viewing will be on Thursday, July 28, 2022 from 3:00 PM to 7:00 PM at the Fred B. Pratt Memorial Chapel.  A mask or face covering is required to enter the funeral home.

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