Lawrence Oates, Jr.

Edwards Small Mortuary announces with our deepest sympathy the passing of Lawrence Oates, Jr. on January 13, 2024.  Our condolences to the family and friends.

Lawrence Oates, Jr. came into this world on April 20, 1952. Lawrence was affectionately known as “Bay" to his dearly beloved wife. Judy Jacobs Oates. His family and friends playfully called him “Big Dog”. He had a gentle nature. infectious laugh, and warm smile that could bring comfort to anyone around him. His presence in a room was always felt, not only because of his tall stature but also because of his larger-than-life spirit. He was friendly and had a wonderful sense of humor. On January 13. 2024, his Heavenly Father said, “Well done my good and faithful servant” and called him home to rest.

Lawrence was born and raised in Fort Valley, Georgia. He was educated in the Peach County School System and graduated from Henry Alexander Hunt High in 1969. After high school. Lawrence went on to play basketball for Fort Valley State University where he was an excellent athlete. His love for basketball and sports in general remained even after his playing years. He loved to watch basketball and football in his downtime. He loved vacationing and as the “family photographer” could often be found snapping numerous photos. During the spring/summer months, if you happened to pass by his home, you were sure to see him in the yard cutting grass or tending to his garden.

Lawrence made two major decisions at an early age. The first decision was to commit his life to Christ. The second decision was to fall in love and later marry his childhood sweetheart, Judy Jacobs. Lawrence and Judy were united in holy matrimony on June 19, 1972. At the time of his passing, they had shared 51 1/2 years of marriage and friendship.

Shortly after he married Judy, Lawrence joined the United States Army. He served his country at various duty stations such as Fort Hood, Texas; Hagerstown, Maryland; and Mannheim, Germany. Following his military service, he and Judy returned home to Fort Valley. After returning home, he worked for Blue Bird and Carrier Manufacturing Companies. During his retirement, he did seasonal work for Easterlin Pecan Company until his untimely death.

He's survived by his wife. Judy; his daughter, Trinea Breedlove and two grandchildren; three sisters, Brenda Oates, Kimberly (James) Dugger, and Amy Oates; two brothers, Theron Oates and Cedric (Mekesha) Oates; two aunts, Martha Anderson, and Jean Oates; one uncle, Pete Fluellen; mother-in-law, Jimmie L. Walton; one brother-in-law, Bobby (Catherine) Brooks; four sisters-in-law, Thomasina Washington, Theresa Lemon, Penny Ogletree and Wanda Brown; two devoted nieces, Victoria (Charlie) Lee and Payton (Calyx) Stevenson and a host of extended family. He was preceded in death by his parents. Lawrence Oates, Sr. and Mary Oates; two brothers, Melvin Oates and Terry Oates; and one sister, Rita Oates.