A graveside service to celebrate his life will be held on Friday, September 4, 2020 at 3:00 PM in Parkhill Cemetery with Reverend Paul Thomas officiating. Family will visit with friends Thursday evening from 6:00 PM until 8:00 PM at Striffler-Hamby, Columbus, Georgia. In keeping with the efforts to stop the spread of COVID-19, Striffler-Hamby Mortuary will be following the guidelines set forth by the CDC and Governor Brian Kemp to maintain social distancing for those attending the services. Wearing of face masks is recommended. Services will be live streamed through our Facebook page at Striffler-Hamby Mortuary at Parkhill Cemetery.
Franklin D. Bates was born on October 21, 1944 in Talladega, Alabama to the late Lusell Williams Bates and Henry Arthur Bates. He was a graduate of Jordan Vocational High School. Franklin was married to Gail Freeman in 1974, and together they lived in Columbus. He worked for Columbus Water Works for over 30 plus years. During his time working at Columbus Water Works, Franklin aslo worked in the Lord’s Army serving his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ as an Associate Pastor at Columbus Full Gospel Church on Schomburg Road, and later on he was a Pastor for many years at Spirit of God Fellowship Church on Weems Road. Franklin also loved the great outdoors, God’s own creation and all that was in it. He enjoyed fishing and getting his hands dirty in the garden. When Franklin wasn’t enjoying spending time outdoors you might find him indoors enjoying listening to Southern Gospel and Country music or watching Alabama football; he was an avid Alabama fan. Franklin will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved him.
He leaves his legacy to be cherished by his loving wife, Gail F. Bates; son, Jeff J. Bates and his wife Shana L. Bates; daughter, Deana C. Cerbo and her husband Hugo Cerbo; grandchildren: Alyssa J. Bates, Cameron Floyd, Justin Floyd, Preston Floyd, Hugo Cerbo III, Enzo Cerbo, Paulo Cerbo, and Elul Cerbo; sister, Wanda Klimp and her husband, John Klimp; and numerous nieces, nephews and other family members. Franklin was preceded in death by other than his parents, his sisters and brothers, Brunice, Gussie, Joseph and David; and his granddaughter, Hannah L. Bates.
To share fond memories and condolences with the family please visit www.shcolumbus.com.
