Aaron Charles Oates Jr.

Aaron Charles “Fuzz” Oates, Jr., of Sumiton, Alabama, entered into eternal rest on Monday, August 18, 2025, at 1:38 p.m., taking his last breath on earth and his first breath in heaven at his "home away from Sumiton home", in Winfield, AL. Born in Montgomery, Alabama, to Rebel Lizzie Slate and Aaron Charles Oates, Sr., Aaron lived most of his life in Sumiton, where he built a legacy of faith, family, and service. A 1959 graduate of Corner High School, he proudly played as both an offensive and defensive lineman. It was during these years that he earned the nickname “Fuzz,” after refusing to shave until his team won again—his stubborn peach fuzz becoming a trademark among his teammates. So the story goes, during his senior year of high school he was being recruited to play football at UA by Gene Stallings under the leadership of Paul "Bear" Bryant until he hurt his shoulder playing for Corner Yellow Jackets. His lifelong love of football was cemented there, and he remained a devoted fan of the University of Alabama throughout his life. Following high school, Aaron built a long and successful career with the Alabama Department of Transportation. Beginning on road crews and through years of hard work and dedication, he advanced to the role of Civil Engineer before retiring. Known for his quiet strength, he combined his technical skills with a servant’s heart, often using his hands and knowledge to help others in need. It was during a game of cards that Aaron’s life changed forever. There he met Alice Russel, the love of his life, through his sister Della. His card-playing skills impressed Alice, and before long, they were inseparable. Though their marriage nearly didn’t happen—when Aaron traded his candy apple red Chevrolet for a Metropolitan Nash to afford both his sweetheart and a future together—their love endured as a true partnership built on devotion, laughter, and faith. Aaron and Alice were blessed with two children, Cindy Carol Oates and Aaron Charles “Chuck” Oates III (Crystal). Later came his grandchildren, Chadwick Martinius Carlsen (Tabby) and Chandler Oates (Casey), and his great-granddaughters Kacey, Marlee, and Gemma, who were the joy of his later years. Nothing brought him greater happiness than his family. He never missed a practice, recital, or ballgame, and made it a priority to treat his loved ones to annual beach and mountain trips. He was the rock and cornerstone of his family, leading with quiet faith and selfless love. Beyond family and work, Aaron found joy in deer hunting, playing cards, cheering on Alabama football, and sharing his skills to lend a helping hand. His gentle spirit, unwavering faith, and humble character touched all who knew him. He is survived by his beloved wife, Alice; his son, Aaron Charles “Chuck” Oates III (Crystal); his daughter, Cindy Carol Oates; his grandsons, Chadwick Carlsen (Tabby) and Chandler Oates (Casey); and his great-granddaughters, Kacey, Marlee, and Gemma. He is also survived by his sister, Della Jordan (Fletcher); nephew James Oates (Melinda); sister-in-law Patricia Baker; brothers-in-law Willie Russel (Anita) and Kenneth Russell (Eunice); and a host of nieces, nephews, great-nieces and nephews, and great-greats. Aaron was preceded in death by his parents, Reble and Aaron Sr.; mother-in-law Eva Russell; his brother Billy Oates (Eva); nephew David Oates; niece Sonya Cox; sister-in-law Janie Russell Sims; brother-in-laws Emmett Russel and Lawrence Russell. Aaron’s life was a testament to his faith. He was a man of God who walked humbly, loved deeply, and gave freely. He will be remembered for his strength, kindness, and steady presence—and dearly missed by all who were blessed to know him. Memorial services will be Saturday Aug. 23, 2025, at 2:00 pm in the New Horizon Memorial Chapel. Rev. Lane Sargent and Pastor Harv Turner will officiate. The family will receive friends from 1-2 pm. Immediately following the service, the immediate and extended family will be gathering at the Sumiton Church of God Fellowship Hall. In lieu of flowers, the family suggest donations be made in loving memory of Aaron Charles Oates, Jr to one of the following organizations. Alzheimersla.org/donate or call 323-930-6201 or you may send checks to 2922 Crenshaw Blvd. Suite 125 Los Angeles, CA 90016; Amazing Grace Farms at amazinggracefarms.org or to Hospice of North Alabama at hospiceofnorthalabama.com New Horizon Memorial Funeral Home 205-648-2323

Aaron Charles Oates Jr.

February 16, 1941 - August 18, 2025