Roger "Pedro" Theodore Bates, 68, of Franklin passed away Friday, August 16, 2019.

A lifelong native of Macon County, Roger was born on April 8, 1951 to Grady Bates and Pearl Watts Bates. In addition to his parents he was preceded in death by his infant daughter, Angela Joy; two sisters, Wanda Bleckley (Richard) and Gail Bates (Dean); brother-in-law, Dean; and half-brother, Bud Carver (Barbara). Roger was known as "Unk" or Uncle Rog by his many nieces and nephews. He was a people person, having many friends. Among them are two special friends that are considered family, Tim Sanders and Doyle "Curley" Carver. You were never a stranger at Roger's home, he enjoyed having visitors. The neighborhood knew they could call Roger if they needed some help and he would be there. He was always willing to help. Roger was an avid gun enthusiast. His enjoyable pastimes were horse trading, tractors, gardening, canning, hunting, and fishing. Most of all he enjoyed his animals.

He is survived by his daughter, Kelly Bates Mayhorn of Franklin; two granddaughters, Kaylee and Summer, both of Franklin; sisters, Carolyn Emory (William) and Connie Conley (Turner); brothers, Donald Bates (Barbara) and Ricky Bates (Vickie); sister-in-law, Barbara Carver; and several nieces and nephews.

A Graveside Service will be held at 4 pm, Wednesday, August 21 at Rush Cemetery.

A special thank you to Four Seasons Hospice and Macon Valley Nursing and Rehabilitation Center for their exceptional care.

Macon Funeral Home is handling the arrangements.

Condolences can be made to the family at www.maconfuneralhome.com