Dr. Steve Oates passed away at his home on December 8, 2014. He was born in Center, Texas on January 23, 1933, to Dr. L.S. Oates and Lucille Weaver Oates. Steve graduated from Center High School in 1950, attended the University of Texas, and graduated from the University of Texas Medical School in Galveston, Texas. It was there that he met the love of his life, Frances Shepherd, who became his wife and the mother of his sons, and a partner in every aspect of his life and work. Their impact on the lives and activities of the people in Center and Shelby County is legend. Dr. Steve’s greatest sorrow was the death of Frances in May of 2010.

Both Dr. Steve and Frances, a registered nurse, joined his dad’s medical practice, Shelby Clinic, in 1958, and Dr. Steve continued to treat his patients until the day of his death. He will be sorely missed by all of those who depended upon him to see to their health needs for so many years as well as by the many friends who relied on him to make their lives brighter and make them laugh at the “punny” jokes that he loved.

Dr. Steve was a lifetime member of the First Christian Church and continued to worship there until the time of his death. He is survived by two sons, Laried Oates, of Center, Shepherd Oates and wife Denise, grandson Stephen D. Oates and wife Leslie, and great granddaughter, Ryiot Kloe Oates, the joy of his life, all of Mesquite, Texas and Sister, Portia Gaines of Center.

It is so hard, indeed, impossible, to say goodbye to a man who has meant so much to so many, but we are deeply grateful to have had him in our lives for so many years as our trusted physician and beloved friend, and our memories of Dr.Steve will continue to live in our minds and hearts. He was a man of honor: kind, modest, smart, funny, one who devoted his life and time to improving the lives of others. Oh, yes, his was a life well spent.

 In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Fannie Brown Booth Library, the First Christian Church in Center, or any charity of choice.  

Graveside Services will be 4:00 p.m. Thursday, December 11, 2014 at Fairview Cemetery in Center with Bro. Aubie McSwain officiating. No visitation is planned.

You may sign the online registry book at www.mangumfuneralhome.com

Services are under the direction of Mangum Funeral Home Center, Texas