Ryland Lanier Bates, aka Skins, passed away unexpectedly surrounded by his children on September 25, 2020 at Sentara Careplex in Hampton, VA.

Lanier was born July 14, 1956 in Alleghany County, Virginia to the late Ryland Delano Bates.

Along with his father, he was raised by his late grandmother, Bamma Virginia Masters Bates.

Skins was proceeded in death by his sister, Bamma Kay Jeffries, whom he loved dearly and his half-brother, Darrell Feury.

He grew up on Snake Run in Alleghany County, but recently relocated to Hampton, VA after the passing of his wife, Shirley Bates (whom he could not live with or without), to be with family.

Skins was survived by his children, Tabatha Plymale, Melissa Wellington and husband, Mosley, Jason Bates, Marie Antes and husband, Matt, Ryland Plymale; stepchildren, Gabe, Sabrina and Albert Tuono; half-brother, David Feury; and a number of grand and great grandchildren.

He adored all of his family and extended family. Skins never met a stranger. He loved the mountain life and being in the country. During his life, he raised numerous racoons. Rascal seemed to be his go-to name. Some of his favorite past time enjoyments were hunting, tending to his garden, farming, putting the pedal to the metal and burning rubber in his GTO, jumping over fences, gates and cars just to name a few, and of course, drinking beer!

For over 30 years he worked as a dry-wall finisher for Pete and Victor. He took much pride in his work and was proud of his accomplishments. Skins was a former member of the Covington Moose Lodge. He was always caring, giving and the life of the party.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held Saturday, October 3, 2020 at 2:00 p.m. at the Covington Moose Lodge located at 414 Moose Park Road, Covington, VA 24426.