Alvin Eugene Bates, 74, of Snake Run Road, Covington, Virginia, died Sunday, June 30, 2013 at The Golden Living Center in Clifton Forge.

He was born November 12, 1938 in Covington, a son of the late Cecil and Bamma Masters Bates.

Alvin retired Newport News Shipbuilding after 37 years of service as Calibration Tech. He was a member of Dunlap Christian Church.

In addition to his parents, Alvin ws preceded in death by four brothers, Ryland Bates, Gordon Bates, Ellis Bates and Charles Bates.

Surviving are his wife of 54years, Gladys Rock Bates of Covington; one son, Jerry Bates of Poquoson; a daughter in law, Lisa Bates; two daughters, Rhonda Gilbert of Smithfield and Donna and T.D. Shiflett of Richmond; four grandchildren, Brandi Ward and her husband, Chad of Newport News; Krystle Pitman of Williamsburg; David Bates of Gloucester and Timothy Jones of Newport News; two great grandchildren, Isabella Doss and Aiden Doss; one brother, Johnny Bates of Covington and one sister, Betty Harvey and her husband Arnold of Covington; his very best friend, Frank Hepler of Covington and several nieces and nephews.

The funeral service was held Wednesday 12:00 noon, July 3, 2013 in the Arritt Funeral Home Chapel with the Rev. Larry Adkin officiating.

The interment was made in the Sweet Chalybeate Cemetery. Memorial Donations in Mr. Bates name may be made to the Mountain Regional Hospice, P.O. Box 637, Clifton Forge, VA 24422.

The online guest book is available at arrittfuneralhome.com.