Lillian Middleton Oates

Lillian Middleton Oates of Perry, AR passed away October, 17, 2020 at the age of 92. Born in Perry County AR, she was the oldest daughter of Jim and Edith Middleton. After leaving Perry as a war bride she lived in Augusta, GA for many years and then returned to Perry, AR and more recently resided at the Perry County Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in Perryville, AR. She was preceded in death by her husband, Oran Oates and former husband, Eddie Brown, infant son James E. Brown, a daughter, Brenda Kirkland, grandson, Mark Banta, brothers Johnny Middleton and James T. Middleton, and a sister, Minnie Quinn. She was a faithful member of the First Baptist Church of Perryville, AR where she looked forward to every Sunday service. She is survived by a daughter, Diane Banta (Ted) of North Augusta, SC; step daughter, Mary Oates of Perry, AR; grandchildren, Greg Banta of North Augusta, SC; Sara Dixon (Rich) of Martinez, GA; Jesse Kirkland (Ashley), Seth Kirkland (Joy), and Bonnie Kirkland (Jereme) all of North Augusta, SC; nine great grandchildren; brothers Jimmy Middleton (Vernell), Carl Middleton (Peggy), sisters Louise Dempsey and Maudie Garrett and a host of nieces and nephews. Lillian loved her family and home and enjoyed a life filled with travel, gardening, reading, church activities and a passion for writing, especially letters to family and friends. She furthered her love of writing by pouring her musings, reflections, and life experiences into a published book called Coffee and Teacakes. She was an excellent cook and hostess and was happiest when entertaining family and friends around her dining table. Special thanks to Vernell and Jimmy Middleton for their many acts of kindness during her last days and a huge debt of gratitude and thankfulness to Rhonda Stout, Krista, Mandy, Karen, Amy and many, many other staff members at the Perry County Nursing and Rehabilitation Center who went above and beyond to make her last days as comfortable and love filled as possible. This institution is a treasure and a blessing to Perryville, AR. A memorial service has been postponed at this time and will be held at a later date to be announced.

Lillian Middleton Oates

May 19, 1928 - October 17, 2020