Toni Sharle Bates

Toni Sharle Bates passed away peacefully on January 17, 2025 after a short illness. Born on December 9, 1951 in Anderson, SC, she was a daughter of the late Charles Lyman Bates and Jean Weber Bates. 

In addition to her parents, Toni is preceded in death by her beloved sister Candy Bates Quinn. 

Toni will be remembered and celebrated for her many accomplishments, unwavering faith, compassion for others, deep love for her family and life itself.

A graduate of Columbia College with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Education, Toni’s first love was in teaching, whether it be in public education or special needs children. 

After Toni made Charleston home she began work for the City of Charleston in Human Resources and finally ended her 40 year career as a patient representative with Charleston County EMS. 

She is survived by six brothers and sisters including Jamie Bates (Forrest) Adair, Charles Lyman (Suzanne)Bates, Jr., Pud Bates(Carey Scott), Marla Jean (Kevin)Garrison, Christopher Arthur(Rhonda)Bates and Artina Bates (Jeff) Sandlin. 

Toni left behind 16 nieces and nephews and 18 gran nieces and nephews. Her greatest gift of all was love. She will always love her family, nieces and nephews! 

Toni’s giving spirit touched the lives of many, whether young or old. Of note was her volunteerism with the Seacoast Dream Center in North Charleston- a nonprofit organization dedicated to serving individuals and families in need. 

A celebration of her life will be held on Saturday, February 8, at 11:00 a.m. at Seacoast Dream Center which is located at 5505 North Rhett Ave., 

North Charleston, SC. Following the service, she will be interred at Christ Church columbarium on Hwy. 17 in Mount Pleasant at 1 p.m. Arrangements by J. Henry Stuhr, Inc., Mt. Pleasant Chapel.

In lieu of flowers, please send memorials to Seacoast Dream Center, 5505 North Rhett Ave., North Charleston, SC 29406. 

A memorial message may be sent to the family on our website at www.jhenrystuhr.com.