Darrell Wayne Bates (aka Buster) 67 of Knoxville, TN., passed away peacefully on September 17, 2025 at Park West Hospital. He had been battling lung cancer as well as cancer in his bones. He was also suffering from advanced stage dementia with Sundowners.
Darrell is proceeded in death by his parents, Roy Jacob Bates and Zella “Dot” Lee Bates (Thomas). He is survived by his daughter, Kesha Bates (Nathan Cooper Jr.) and his son, Jacob Bates (Cassandra Bates). He is also survived by grandchildren: Natalie, Madison, Matthew, Preston, Braiden, Isabella and great grandson, Malachi.
Darrell loved music. He was an incredibly talented musician. He could play anything he picked up, but the first instrument he fell in love with was the drums. When he was in elementary school, he would use oatmeal boxes, which later became a set of Pearl drums. Darrell grew up playing in the church. He loved the Lord and loved his church family at Full Armour of Christ Church.
There will be a celebration of life service on Monday, September 22, 2025. The service will be held at Full Armour of Christ Church located at 6470 Burnett Creek Rd. Knoxville, TN. 37920 from 6pm-8pm. Pastor Paul Perry will be officiating the service, starting at 7pm.
A special thank you to the Hospice team and the staff at Park West Hospital.