Obituary of Clifton Ricky Bates

NORTH AUGUSTA, SC – Clifton Ricky Bates, 24, entered into eternal peace on Tuesday, July 14, 2020 in North Augusta, SC. Clifton was loved by everyone the moment he was born on March 14, 1996.

He is survived by his mother and stepfather, Crystal and Scott Kraft of Aiken, SC; his father Glenn Bates of North Augusta; maternal grandparents Mike Doughty of Charleston, WV and Dianna Doughty Cain of North Augusta, SC and Ken Kraft of Beaufort, SC; paternal grandparents Charles and Grace Bates of Clarks Hill, SC. His uncles Willy Doughty, Matt Bates, Kris Kraft and aunt Tanya Kaltenbach all got to share many memorable times with him. He will be greatly missed by his many Great Aunts and Uncles and cousins far and wide. He loved spending time with family and friends.

Clifton was an amazing person, with a heart of gold. He was quick to laugh with an amazing smile. He enjoyed many things throughout his young life. He loved to call himself a hunter and fisherman, though not many wildlife was actually hurt by his hands. He enjoyed spending time out at the creek or in the woods and was willing to take anyone who wanted to go with him. He was a history buff who loved to tell you all about it as well as learning anything he could about botany. He was devoted to his family and friends and loved by many and showed that love in return, whether it was by giving you a big hug, scaring you, cooking for you, or playing a practical joke on you. We didn’t have Clifton for as long as we should have, but the time we had will be cherished because he was such a joy to be around and a blessing in all of our lives. If he touched your soul in any way know that he will live on in your heart forever.

Friends and Family are welcome Saturday, July 18, 2020 at 11:00 am at George Funeral Home in Aiken, SC, with service to begin at 12:00 pm in The George Funeral Chapel. He will be interred at Gibson Cemetery in Slaty Fork, WV on Monday, July 20, 2020 at 12:00 pm with a small graveside service.

In lieu of flowers, donations should be made to The SPCA Albrecht Center for Animal Welfare, 199 Willow Run Road, Aiken, SC 29801. 

The Historic George Funeral Home & Cremation Center, 211 Park Ave., SW, Aiken, SC 29801 (803.649.6234), has charge of arrangements.

Expressions of sympathy for the family may be left by visiting www.georgefuneralhomes.com