'Paul Harrison Bates, age 81 was born in the Susie community of Wayne County, January 29, 1932 the son of the late Reuben and Lila Jane Upchurch Bates. He passed away Wednesday afternoon at the Somerwoods Nursing Center after an extended illness.

Paul is survived by his wife Josephine Gregory Bates; his daughter: Lisa and her husband Jeff Perkins and sons: Larry and wife Juli Bates and Obie and his wife Regina Bates and his stepson, Chris Jones. Also surviving are ten grandchildren, four great grandchildren, with many other relatives and friends to mourn his passing.

Paul was youngest and last surviving member of the Reuben Bates family. He is preceded in death by his siblings: Cora Koger; Nannie Taylor; Zella Sloan; Clarence and Cisro Bates and an infant sister.

Paul was a longtime employee of the Monticello Police Department. Beginning his Law Enforcement career in 1956 he later served as Chief of Police during the 1960\u0027s. He was elected Sheriff in 1970 and returned to the Police Department after his term, he remained with the Department until he was elected Wayne County Jailer. After his retirement he continued to serve his community as a two term member of the Monticello City Council. In 1991 Paul accepted Christ as his Savior and became a member of the Faith United Baptist Church where he remained faithful as his health would allow.

Visitation:
Friday from 5 to 9 and Saturday until 9 at the Funeral Home and from 10 to 2 Saturday at the Church

Funeral:
2PM Saturday at the Faith United Baptist Church

Interment:
Elk Spring Cemetery',