Shepherd Weaver Oates , 56, of Center, passed away Wednesday, July 3, 2019, in Center.

Visitation will be held from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m., Saturday, July 6, 2019, at Watson & Sons Funeral Home in Center. Graveside service will follow at Fairview Cemetery in Center with Bro. Josh Sandford officiating.

Mr. Oates was born January 22, 1963, in Center, to Lareid Stephen Oates Jr. and Frances Shepherd Oates. His career was in computer software. He loved guns, comics, and gaming. Mr. Oates was a member of First Baptist Church in Center, where he was involved in the Barnabas Sunday school class.

He is survived by his wife, Denise Dellinger Oates of Center; son, Stephen Daniel Oates and wife Leslie of Mesquite; granddaughter, Ryiot Oates of Mesquite; brother, Lareid Oates III of Center; and a host of friends.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Lareid Stephen Oates Jr. and Frances Shepherd Oates.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the First Baptist Church Youth Fund.