William L. Coates

'Billy'

Billy Coates took the checkered flag on Tuesday, November 01, 2011, after a several-month battle with cancer. Even though the disease affected him physically, he never lost his good humor and concern for others. He was 74 years old.

Billy was born on August 13, 1937 in Greenville, S.C. He moved to Charlotte in 1968 to pursue a career in the auto racing industry. Billy was involved in drag racing and stock cars in the early days, but preparing road racing sports cars had become his passion for the past 30 years. Billy was famous for helping competitors fix their cars, often loaning them tools and giving them parts. Last Sunday, just two days before his passing, 23 of those competitors gathered in Billy's living room to tell 'Billy stories.' Even though he was weak, Billy was laughing as much as anybody.

Billy was one of the most generous, caring and helpful human beings most of us are likely to meet in our lifetime.

Billy was preceded in death by his parents, James Larry Coates (1966) and Elizabeth Shepperd Coates (1987). He is survived by his wife Kathy Coates; and children: Sherri Coates Owen and husband Tony of Easley, S.C.; William "Billy" Larry Coates, Jr. and wife Debbie of Easley, S.C.; Debra Coates Mitchell of Charlotte; stepchildren: Charles Thomas and wife Suzanne of New Market, Tenn.; Mike Brickman of Jacksonville, N.C.; Patricia Brickman Kelley and husband Walt of Mint Hill; and Susan Brickman of Charlotte; and grandchildren: Craig Owens and girlfriend Chandra; Matthew and Michala Coates; and step grandchildren: Ericka Kelley; and Austin and Chloe.

The family would like to thank Hospice of Charlotte for care during Billy's final days.

Billy's life will be celebrated with services Thursday at 11:00 AM at McEwen Funeral Service at Sharon Memorial Park 5716 Monroe Rd, Charlotte. The family will receive friends Wednesday from 7:00 - 9:00 PM at the funeral home. Interment will follow at Carolina Memorial Park. Condolences may be sent to mcewenfs.com.

Arrangements may be sent to McEwen Funeral Chapel, or memorials may be sent to Hospice of Charlotte, 1420 E. Seventh St. Charlotte NC 28204