Billy Ray Coates

Billy Ray Coates, 88, of Due West, SC, husband of the late Brenda Lee O’Quinn Coates, died Sunday, September 13, 2026, at Richard E. Campbell Veterans Nursing Home in Anderson, SC. He was born in Pelham, AL to the late Willie and Mettie Coates.

Billy Ray was a mechanic by trade, a line of work that reflected skill, dedication, and a willingness to help keep things running for others. He also honorably served his country in the military, a service that remained an important part of his life. Billy Ray was of the Baptist faith. May his memory bring comfort to those who knew him.

In addition to his wife and parents, he was preceded in death by two children, Eddie Coates and Debra Coates Davis and her husband, Leon; three siblings, R. L. Coates, James ‘Sonny’ Coates and Marguerite Busby.

Billy Ray is survived by his son, James ‘Jimmy’ Coates; three step-children, Dawn Brown (Tim), Paul Gettys and Rodney Bailey; six grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren; and a daughter-in-law, Diana Coates.

A celebration of Billy Ray’s life will be 6:00PM, Sunday, September 20, 2026, at 4 Strong Circle, Due West, SC 29639.

A message of condolence may be sent to the family by visiting www.harrisfuneral.com.

Harris Funeral Home & Cremation Services of Abbeville is assisting the Coates family.