MINT HILL, NORTH CAROLINA - George Nicholas Bateman, 95, formerly of Franklin and Canton, North Carolina, and of Baltimore, Maryland, passed away at home on Monday, Dec. 14, 2020.
George, or as he was known to his beloved family, “Papaw”, was born on Dec. 5, 1925 in Baltimore, Maryland. George is survived by his daughter Edna “Georgette” Keck and her husband, William “Bill” Keck of Mint Hill, North Carolina, (formerly of Franklin). George is also survived by his four admiring grandchildren, Laura Barker (Michael), Jennifer Georgette Barnes (Trevor), William “Billy” Keck (Melody), and Carolyn Loftis; and his 7 great-grandchildren, Dax, Amos, Elizabeth, David, Andrew, Rowan, and Daniel George, and numerous nieces and nephews.
He is preceded in death by his wife of 39 years, Edna Mae Sorrells, daughter of Frank and Ruth Sorrells; and his parents, William and Marie Lurz Bateman and all of his 14 siblings.
George was the 13th child in his family and he enjoyed close relationships with his parents and siblings, especially his brothers Johnny and Joe. He loved growing up near Chesapeake Bay and enjoyed crabbing and all seafood. Though drafted over-age, he was proud to serve his country in the Army from 1952-1954 and completed a tour in Germany. Edna and George were married in 1957 in Baltimore. After welcoming their daughter Georgette, they moved to Canton, North Carolina to be close to Edna’s family. George and Edna enjoyed a beautiful marriage full of long drives, gardening, exploring the Blue Ridge Mountains, many laughs, and George’s incredible penchant for storytelling.
George worked in home improvement and maintenance, with most of his career spent owning a painting company. He took great pride in a job well done and credited his longevity to his love of exercise. He loved biking, hiking, and weight lifting, as well as chocolate candy! George never knew a stranger and was always ready to help anyone in need.
George was a fun father and grandfather, always ready to play. Georgette has many happy memories of sledding, ice skating, making igloos and snowmen. He faithfully cared for Edna during a long illness and after her death he tended their cheerful yellow house on the hill in Franklin. At 91 years old he moved in with Georgette, the apple of his eye. His family will fondly remember his big personality, full of life and vigor. He enjoyed his 95th birthday celebrations with family earlier this month.
George was an active member of Crestview Baptist in Haywood County and Cowee Baptist in Franklin. Rev. Frank Harvey will be officiating. Frank led George to the Lord in 1973 and became a close friend.
A graveside service will be held at 2 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 19, 2020 at Bethel Community Cemetery in Canton, North Carolina.
Crawford / Ray Funeral Home and Cremation Service is honored to be caring for the Bateman family and words of comfort may be shared at CrawfordRay.com