Nathaniel Pates Sr.

Nathaniel Pates Sr. affectionately called “Lil Buddy” was born December 31,1948 to the late Aaron Pates

Sr. and Rosie Pates in Scott, Mississippi. He was the 7th of 14 children. He departed this earthly life: January 21, 2023. He was educated at West Bolivar High School. Lil Buddy had a love for sweet potato pies and he loved traveling and fishing. He loved antique cars and corvettes.Lil Buddy worked really hard and was a provider for his family and very giving to his friends. He worked at a Jewel Bakery (1974-2000) in Melrose Park IL. For 26 years he also worked for Pac Railroad for 10 years (2002 to 2012) over 10 years, until he retired.

 At a young age he married Ruby Williams-Pates and they have been together for over 50 years.They had one son.They lived in Maywood, Illinois where they raised their son. After retirement they moved to Rosedale Mississippi to be closer to his family who he loved dearly.

He leaves to cherish his lovely wife Ruby Williams- Pates (Gold), his daughter Kalesher Robinson,1 grandaughter Natrianna Pates and 1 grandson Nathaniel Pates lll. 11 siblings: Junior (Lula) Pates, Charles (Christella) Pates,Rachel (LC) Northington, and Leo Pates all of Cleveland, Mississippi, Roy (Kathy) Pates of Renova, Mississippi, Thelma Gibson, Rosedale Mississippi, Sylvester Pates of Homestead, Florida, Ezel (Nona) Pates of Maywood Illinois, Edna (James) Beamon Flint Michigan, Willie (Daisy) Pates and Terry (Alvin) Daniels of Merigold,Mississippi.

He was preceded in death by his parents Aaron and Rosie Pates, his son Nathaniel Pates Jr,his brother Aaron Pates and his sister Charlie Mae (Hunter) Pates.

Services will begin at 12:00 Noon Saturday February 4, 2022 at Leek & Sons Funeral Home 1215 W. Bradley St, Urbana. Visitation will begin at 11:00 am until the start of the service. Burial Woodlawn Cemetery.

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