Claude Coates

Candler-

Claude Richard Coates, 64, of Candler went home to be with his Lord on Saturday, October 31, 2009. He was the son of the late Ed and Mary Ollie Reese Coates. He was also preceded in death by a brother, James Hershel Coates and half sisters, Arnon Dupree and Magdella Rhymer.

Richard was born on May 29, 1945 in Madison County but he spent most of his life in Buncombe County. He was in the insurance business for 30 years retiring from Jefferson Pilot. He was a member of Oak Forest Presbyterian Church. Richard loved singing and playing his guitar, antiquing and the outdoors.

Survivors include his loving wife and best friend of 26 years, Cynthia Beall Coates, daughter, Chastity Case and husband Rocky of Candler, son, Brandon Coates of the home, two granddaughters, Kaylee and Lindsey Case, sisters, Helen Worley and husband Kenneth of Asheville, Ruby Gambell Boone and husband Johnny of Weaverville, Wilma Hughes and husband Jeff of Oteen and Shelby Ackerman and husband John of TN, brothers, E.J. Coates and wife Genevieve of Marshall and Ray Donald Coates and wife Jane of Fletcher, sister-in-law, Virginia Coates of Marshall and several nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will be held on Thursday, 5PM at Oak Forest Presbyterian Church with Rev. William Christian and Rev. Jeff Wilkie officiating. The family will receive friends at the church from 3:00-5:00 prior to the service. A private burial will be held at Forest Lawn Memorial Park.

Memorials may be made to the Presbyterian Home for Children: 80 Lake Eden Rd. Black Mountain, NC 28711.

To sign Mr. Coates online register book please visit www.moorefh.net .

Moore Funeral Home at Forest Lawn, Candler (828)667-8717 is assisting the family.