David Ralph Oates, age 79, of Augusta, WV passed away peacefully at his home on Wednesday, October 7, 2026.

Born on July 14, 1947, he was the son of the late Roy Price Oates and Alma ( Shingleton) Oates.

Along with his parents, he is preceded in death by his wife, Patricia Oates,daughter, Tricia Oates Lee and an infant sister, Virginia.

He is survived by his daughters, Amy Ranel (Leroy) of Dacula, GA, Denise Hott (Eric) of Augusta, WV, Jill Myers (Dale) of Augusta, WV, son-in-law, Jamie Lee, 12 grandchildren, a sister, Donna Jean Hott (Benjie) Augusta, WV and a brother, Roy Glenn Oates (Kim) of Augusta. WV.

David was a graduate of Hampshire High School, Romney, WV, Class of 1965. He was a farmer and school bus driver for Hampshire County Schools for 30 years. He retired in 2006 and then devoted his time to the things he loved—farming and D&G Equipment Sales.

David was a hard worker. He believed in showing up, doing the job right, and giving it everything he had. He had a strong work ethic, and that was something he passed down to his four daughters, who were blessed to inherit not only his work ethic, but also his determination and strength.

David was the “quiet one.” He didn’t say a lot, but he was always watching, always listening, and always paying attention. He didn’t need to be the loudest voice in the room. And when David did speak, you listened—because his words were thoughtful, meaningful, and usually of significance.

That was David. Quiet, hardworking, observant, and steady. He may not have said much, but the example he set spoke volumes.

Funeral services will be held on Sunday, October 11, 2026 at Covenant Baptist Church, Romney, WV at 2:00 P.M. with Pastor Dale Myers officiating. Interment will be in Ebenezer Cemetery, Romney, WV.

The family will receive friends on Saturday, October 10, 2026 from 2-4pm at McKee Funeral Home, Augusta WV.

All arrangements are handled by McKee Funeral Home, Augusta, WV.