John "Johnny" Oates

John “Johnny” Franklin Oates, 76, of Bessemer City, passed away at CaroMont Regional Medical Center on July 6, 2021. He was born November 7, 1944, in Gaston County to the late Walter and Katie Mae Oates.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his nephew Nathan Jenkins.

Johnny was active in his family, church, and community. He was a member of Chapel Grove VFD Board of Directors, Farm Bureau Board of Directors, G.A.M.T.R.A (Cotton Ginning), KM Saddle Club, and Pisgah ARP Church. Johnny currently attended First Wesleyan Church of Bessemer City. In his spare time, Johnny enjoyed being a member of the Silver Screen Cowboys and was an expert marksman, even winning multiple awards. Johnny also appeared as Santa Claus for over 40 years. Johnny retired from the City of Gastonia and the Chapel Grove Volunteer Fire Department.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 42 years, Cleo C. Oates; children, Sherry Clubb (Wayne Pendleton), Mac Clubb, and Dawn Whitted (Van); grandchildren, Blake Clubb, Kaylynn English, Luke, Eli, and Samuel Whitted; sister, Susan O. Jenkins (Mack); brother, Henry W. Oates (Barbara); husband and wife in-laws, George and Phyllis Clubb; nephews, Seth Jenkins (Sarah), and Paul Jenkins; nieces, Deanna Merrill (Jonathan), and Emily Payne (Travis); many great nieces and great nephews.

The visitation will be held from 1:30 PM – 3:00 PM at First Wesleyan Church, Bessemer City on Saturday, July10, 2021.

Johnny's funeral service will be held 3:00 PM on Saturday, July 10, 2021, at First Wesleyan Church with Pastors Matt Mitchell and Richard Lewis officiating.

Interment will follow at Pisgah ARP Church Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to First Wesleyan Church, P.O Box 682, Bessemer City, NC 28016.