Bessie Coates

Bessie Bernice Coates, 89, of Clarkton passed away on Saturday, August 7, 2021. She was preceded in death by her parents, Ernest and Dolly Hyatt; husband, Rev. Clyde W. Coates; grandson, Christopher Coates; brothers: Lonnie Hyatt and Ernest Hyatt, Jr.; sisters: Frances Alford, Betty Gaddy and Mary Elizabeth Jones.

Bessie leaves behind five sons: Wayne Coates and wife Donna of Lumberton, Ricky Coates and wife Barbara of Calhoun, GA, Marty Coates and wife Bridgette of Florence, SC, Randy Coates and wife Kathy of Clarkton, Phillip Coates and wife Jaymie of Southport; three daughters: Phyllis Strickland and husband Ricky of Clarkton, Candy Mitchell and husband Troy of Clarkton, Debbie Scott and husband Steve of Winston Salem; sister, Gladys Johnson of Florence, SC; thirteen grandchildren: Darrell Strickland (Allison), Austin Strickland, Jaimie Lilley (Mark), Stefanie Coates, Ricky Coates, Meagan Phillips (Ryan), Tyler Scott (Ashton), Luke Coates, Rachel Coates, Andy Coates (Madison), Alex Coates, Ashtyn Coates, Cassidy Coates; twelve great-grandchildren: Katie, Josh, Selah, Oliver, Abby Ruth, Charlotte, Cole, Wyatt, Liam, Lily Bess and Henry Keith.

Bessie married the love of her life, Rev. Clyde Coates and together they served God. She was the perfect minister’s wife and Sunday school teacher. She was a wonderful cook who enjoyed entertaining friends and family in her home during their ministry. Bessie was a devoted wife and mother staying true to her word in everything she did. Her compassionate spirit will never be forgotten.

The family will receive friends at 2pm on Monday, August 9th at New Center Baptist Church with a funeral service at 3pm. Rev. Kevin Kinlaw will officiate service. Burial will follow in the Clarkton Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to New Center Baptist Church 19894 NC-131 Hwy, Bladenboro, NC 28320.