French A. Moates

French Arlan Moates, age 86, of Brandywine, WV, passed away on Friday, December 15, 2023, at his home. He was born on November 15, 1937, at Doe Hill, VA, the son of the late French and Fannie Jane (Simmons) Moats. French married Jerline Marie (Benson) Moates, who survives in Brandywine.

French attended Franklin High School and he retired in December 1992 from Sugar Grove Naval Base, as a Public Works Supervisor. He was a Veteran of the US Navy, after 11 years of service to his country.

French attended Riverside United Methodist Church and was a member of St. Paul Lutheran Church and the Sugar Grove VFW #9666. He enjoyed spending time with his family and friends. French had an infectious personality and a kind heart .

In addition to his wife, French leaves behind to cherish his memory: 2 sons, Edward A. Moates (Penny) of Franklin, WV, Michael E. Moates (Nichelle) of Brandywine, WV; 2 sisters, Dorothy Atkins (Jesse) of Mt. Clinton, VA, Helen Mines of Clover Hill, VA; 3 grandchildren; and 13 great-grandchildren. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by: 2 sons, Randy (1973) and Brian (1997); and a grandson, Joey (1991).

French's family will receive friends on Wednesday, December 20, 2023, 3-5 PM at the Basagic Funeral Home in Franklin, WV. Funeral services will follow at 5:00 PM in the funeral home chapel, with Pastor Judy Vetter officiating. Military Honors will be conducted by US Navy Representatives. Memorials may be made to South Fork Volunteer Fire Department or C.A.N. Memories and words of comfort may be left at  www.basagic.com or on Facebook at Basagic Funeral Home.