Obituary of George Coates

George Coates was born on December 1, 1951 in Washington, DC to Carroll Wilbur Coates Sr. and Janie Bowles Coates. George and his eight siblings grew up in rural Fairfax County near what is now George Mason University. He stayed in the area throughout his life, making his home in Falls Church, Virginia. On the evening of September 16th, 2024, at the age of 72, George Coates passed away from a stroke.

After attending Woodson High School, George worked as a handy-man at an apartment complex, finding satisfaction in working with his hands. Later in life, with the guidance of his brother Ralph, he transitioned into the plumbing profession. He found his calling working as a plumber and loved his work until his final days.

If you were ever looking for George you could always find him sitting in the backyard or out on a walk enjoying the outdoors. From an early age he enjoyed being active and in nature. From playing baseball with his brothers to helping out on his uncle’s farm in Chantilly, he was always outside. Another joy of George’s were his beloved Washington Commanders. No matter the team name, the head coach, or the performance of the Washington Commanders, he stayed a loyal fan. At game time he could be seen wearing his jersey while cheering on the team from his living room.

George will be remembered for his generous heart, welcoming nature, and cheery spirit. He was always willing to lend a helping hand to a fellow neighbor, friend, or family member. Even more so if the need was plumbing related. Upon his passing, George was able to bestow one final gift. He gave the gift of life through organ donation to 2 individuals. He will forever be honored at Inova Fairfax Hospital with his name displayed on the organ donor tree.

George is preceded in death by his mother, Janie Bowles Coates, father, Carroll Wilbur Coates Sr., step-mother, Billie Coates, his brothers Carrol Wilbur Coates Jr., and Ralph Coates, step-siblings Georgia Coates-Keyes and Anthony Bruce Coates. He is survived by his wife, Terry Coates, his children, Paul Coates (Barbara), Bryan Moore (Heather), and Ashley Coates (Josiah), his siblings Clark Coates, Freddie Coates, Irvin Coates, and Sharon Coates, his aunts Geneva Collins and Alice Metcalf, his former wife, Gale Warren (Leroy), his 2 grandchildren, and several cousins, nieces and nephews.