Obituary of Edith S. Bates

Edith S. Bates, 80, devoted wife, loving mother and widow of Robert A. “Bob” Bates to whom she was married for 55 years, passed away Wednesday, July 22, 2020 at her home. Born October 16, 1939 in Creston, SC, she was the daughter of the late H. T. “Shorty” Shumaker and Alice Metts Shumaker. Mrs. Bates was the oldest of seven Shumaker girls and was a graduate of Edmunds High School. She was a member of Southside Baptist Church for over 60 years. She was a retired Customer Service Representative with NBSC. Surviving are five sisters, Thomasine S. Price of Greenville, Agnes S. Romatzick (Richard) of Sumter, Anne S. DeLong (Richard), Faye S. Newman (Claude) all of Sumter, Doris S. Ashworth (Tony) of Winnsboro; and a number of nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her two sons, Robert A. Bates, Jr., Thomas Lloyd Bates; and a sister, Joyce Shumaker Davis. Graveside services will be held at 11 A.M. Saturday at Sumter Cemetery with Rev. Jimmy Holley, Rev. Tommy Atkinson and Rev. Lynn Gardner officiating. The family will receive friends at the graveside. All attendees are asked to wear masks and maintain social distancing during the graveside services. Memorials may be made to a charity of one’s choice. Online condolences may be sent to www.sumterfunerals.com Elmore Hill McCreight Funeral Home & Crematory, 221 Broad Street, Sumter, is in charge of the arrangements (803) 775-9386.