Charles Melvin Bates

The family of Charles Melvin Bates is deeply saddened to announce his passing on Tuesday, September 1, 2026 at the age of 81. Charlie was born on February 14, 1945, in Mt. Holly, NJ to Melvin and Thelma Bates. He grew up, married, raised a family, and worked in the South Jersey area. Charlie relocated to Virginia in 1999 where he remarried, found his passion in breeding German Shepherds, and invested in his church and community. A proud Air Force veteran, Charlie was a man of second chances, helping recovering addicts, incarcerated men, and neighbors in need find help and support. He will be lovingly remembered for his dedication to God, family, country, and his dogs. Charlie is survived by his wife, Donna; his children, Brian (Ellen) and Matthew (Karen); his stepsons, Justin (Shana) and Josh (Tracy); and his grandchildren, Adam, Julia, David, Julie, Noah, Isabella, Skylar, Owen and Lucius. A private family gathering will be held. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that memorial donations be made to Franklin Heights Church in support of the Bridge the Gap ministry. Arrangements by Flora Funeral Service and Cremation Center, Rocky Mount.