Scottie Spates, 69, went to be with our Lord and Savior on Monday, September 29, 2014. Scottie was born on September 6, 1945, in Opelika, Alabama. He lived a life of service to his family, his church, his community and his country. Scottie was the son of the late Verbie Carter and Wilbur Spates. He was preceded in death by his brother, Foreman Spates, and three sisters, Sarah Burford, Gaynell Deavers and Ann Riddle. He is survived by his devoted wife of 47 years, Connie Weaver Spates; son Shannon Spates; daughters Stacy Negley (Todd) and Shellie Gregory (Brad); granddaughters, Abigail Spates and Elle Palin Gregory, grandson, Easton Gregory; two brothers Larcus Spates and Sam Spates; sister Elizabeth Aldridge and many other beloved family members. Scottie grew up in Opelika. He was a U.S. Marine Corps Viet Nam Veteran. Returning to Alabama, he received his BS Degree from Auburn University in 1971. He worked for Uniroyal Goodrich Tire Company for 22 years. He finished his career as the Director of the Worker's Compensation Division, State of Alabama Department of Labor. Scottie was a faithful member of Providence Baptist Church in Opelika. Scottie was a Bible scholar and his life mission was to share the love of Jesus. He was a witness for Christ each day. Family and friends will remember him as a walking testimony. Scottie lived larger than life, and all who knew him will remember his smile, his contagious laughter, his awesome golf game, and his zeal for life with the wind in his hair riding his Harley. Scottie touched the life of everyone he met, and his continuous light will continue to shine. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in Scottie's memory to the Wounded Warrior Project, Inc. at www.woundedwarriorproject.org\donateor mail to 4899 Belfort Road, Suite 300, Jacksonville, Florida 32256. Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of his faithful servants. Psalm 116:15