Howard Duval Tates, Jr. departed this life on Thursday, February 23, 2017 to go home to be with the Lord. Howard (lovingly just called Junior) was born June 29, 1946 to the late Howard Sr. and Louise Tates, and was one of sixteen children. Junior had been an employee of Conovers Septic Services for 30 years. From the skills he acquired while working there, Junior became certified and was successful in operating his own business called JR Repair Service. Being the type of person he was, Junior was loved by many and well known in the community. From being the country doctor with his home remedies of making casts out of first-aid and duct tape, to being a master chef of the one pot meal, to being a master of creating his own words, sayings and/or expressions like Bloop, Sgetti, Aaah that stuck with us. Junior took his time in conversation so that he truly could get to know you. That was his personality and if he had it, you did too. He also was a traveling man. He didn't mind getting in his vehicle and taking a ride to the country with his music, his cooler, and blue cup, anyone was welcomed to ride. Especially his two buddies Bubby Jackson and Wayne Smith. Even though he had those things, he always had his saving grace, his Bible. He had a scripture for every need or situation, for himself or for you. He would bring the beauty and truth of the Bible into our everyday life and was able to give scriptures or words of advice to those that needed it.

Junior was preceded in death by his parents Howard Sr. and Louise, sister Thelma Tates Lyles, and brothers Charles Melvin Tates, Charles "Boogie" Davenport, and Elvis Tates. He leaves to cherish his memory his children April (Antoine), Norine, Lillie, Howard, Eddie and stepdaughter Pam (Terrance). Grandchildren: Antoine Jr., Anastasia, Asia, Aaliyah, Aaron, Steven, Davon, Tyree, Da'rion, Kiara, Amiayah and Caleb. Sisters: Lillie, Inez, Curiva, and Annette. Brothers: John, Larry, Addison, Arvene, Donnie, Kennedy, Ervin, and Alfred. Uncle: Goldie. Aunts: Pauline and Shirley. His life long partner Carolyn. A host of nieces, nephews, and other relatives and friends.