Jerry Wayne Bates, a devoted husband, father, brother, and cherished member of the Centerville community, passed away peacefully on January 12, 2025, at the age of 82. Born on September 16, 1942, on the family farm along Beaverdam Creek in Centerville, Tennessee, Jerry’s arrival was special—he was lovingly delivered by his Grandmother Bates. Farming would become the heart of his life, a place of solace, hard work, and joy.

Jerry was the son of the late Earl Woodrow and Mary Tom Shepard Bates, who instilled in him a strong sense of family, faith, and community. He was preceded in death by his first wife, Barbara Nickell Bates, and his brother, Charles Bates.

He is survived by his loving wife, Linda Breece Bates of Centerville; his children, Russell Bates (Ben Scott) of Nashville and Michelle Bates of Nolensville; his sisters, Wilma Bates Wade (C.W.) of Columbia and Kaye Bates Holland (Mac) of Brentwood; and his brothers, Don Bates (Brenda) of Coopertown and Rick Bates (Mellie) of Nolensville.

Jerry’s life was grounded in faith attending the Centerville Church of Christ, where he built lifelong friendships and a deep connection to his spiritual community. He also found fellowship as a proud member of the local lodge of the Knights of Pythias, living out their values of charity, benevolence, and brotherhood.

After serving his country with pride in the U.S. Army and the Tennessee National Guard, Jerry returned to his roots in Centerville, where his love for his hometown shone in everything he did. As a farmer, Jerry worked the land with dedication and skill, finding peace and purpose in the rhythm of farm life. He and his wife Linda also operated the iconic Breece’s Café on the Centerville Square, where he shared his incredible talent for cooking—most famously his chicken and dumplings, a dish that brought family, friends, and neighbors together time and again.

Jerry had a warm and magnetic personality, the kind of man who never met a stranger. His table in the back corner of the dining room became a gathering place for friends and visitors alike. Whether discussing the events of the day, sharing a laugh, or simply enjoying the company of others, Jerry’s presence made every conversation memorable.

In addition to his community and culinary talents, Jerry had a passion for travel. He loved exploring new places, making new friends, and creating lasting memories with those he loved most.

Jerry was a man of many gifts, but perhaps his greatest was the way he made people feel. His laughter, kindness, and unwavering sense of hospitality were unmatched. From the friendships he built at Skyview Country Club to his leadership on the Hickman County School Board, Jerry lived a life of service and connection.

One of Jerry’s greatest joys was his farm on Milam Branch and Beaverdam Creek. There, he found peace among the rolling hills, the hard work of the land, the lowing cattle, and the timeless beauty of nature. It was his sanctuary, and it reflected the quiet strength and steadfast heart of the man who loved it.

Jerry’s life was a testament to the power of faith, family, and friendship. Though he is no longer with us, his legacy lives on in the hearts of those he touched and in the community he loved so deeply.

Visitation with the family will be 17 Jan 2025 from 4:00 – 8:00 PM and 18 Jan 2025 from 10:00 – 11:00 AM at McDonald Funeral Home – Hickman County.  Funeral Services will be 18 Jan 2025 beginning at 11:00 AM at McDonald Funeral Home – Hickman County with burial to follow at Charles L Nickell Memorial Park Cemetery, Centerville, TN.

In leu of flowers, the family ask memorial donations may be given in his honor to the Morrison-Nicks Scholarship Fund. You may send payments to c/o Centerville Church of Christ, 138 N Central Ave., Centerville, TN 37033.

“Well done, good and faithful servant.”