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Mr. Oates was born in Columbus, GA on September 5, 1947. He enjoyed a long and storied career as a professional wrestler from 1970 to 2010. Along with his late wife Kathy, he owned and operated the iconic Oates Gym from 1979 to 2002. Oates Gym was the undisputed mecca of fitness in Columbus, revered for its unbreakable spirit and the tight-knit family bond shared by its members, a legacy that lives on today.
Mr. Oates also served as the promoter of the Southeastern Bodybuilding Championships throughout the 1980s and into the 1990s and as a wrestling promoter. Mr. Oates traveled extensively throughout the United States for numerous promotions and completed eight tours of Japan, wrestling primarily for All-Japan Pro Wrestling. He held multiple titles throughout his wrestling career, as a single and tag team competitor. In addition to his lifelong involvement in wrestling and fitness, he served as a deputy with the Tybee Island Police Department and a bailiff with the Muscogee County Sheriff’s Office. He was a Christian by faith.
He was generous to a fault, mentoring countless young men who aspired to become professional wrestlers. He carried that same kindness into the gym, where he helped men and women make lasting lifestyle changes, prepare for competitions, or simply find a friend. The bodybuilding shows he promoted not only generated income for the city but also created meaningful opportunities to give back to the community. He later brought that same spirit of servant leadership to his roles with the Tybee Island Police Department and the Muscogee County Sheriff’s Office.
He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Kathryn Newman Oates, and his parents, Ermine and James Oates.
He is survived by his son, Bo Oates (Carin); his fiancée, Helen Guarnieri; grandchildren Abigail Oates, Jackson Oates, Madison Oates, and Stefan Burkhalter (Katie); great-grandson Holland Oates; brother Ted Oates (Lynn); sister Janelle Studdard; nieces Cooki Gilbert (Rusty) and Melissa Fuller; former wife and close friend, Patti Trotter; and a host of other extended family members and friends.
The family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to the wonderful team at Columbus Hospice, as well as to Renee Griner and her fabulous staff at Total Terrain Wellness.
A memorial service will be held at the Evangel Church on Saturday, September 12, at 11:00 AM. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service. The service will be hosted by Von Hardin and Les Thatcher, with Minister Bobby Simmons officiating. Friends are encouraged to wear any Oates Gym gear in celebration of his life, which may be purchased at Unique Sports on Hamilton Road. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Total Terrain Wellness or Columbus Hospice in Jerry’s memory to support patients and their families.
Bobby Simmons says
My friend for over 50 years. We shared the squared circle many times as well as hosting Peach State Pandimonium with Michael Norris for 9 years. It was estimated our pod cast was heard by thousands. He was kind to a fault and will be missed. Due to many conversations we had I have not lost my friend, I know right where he is. At homecwith our Lord. Fly high my friend. Much love….
Chris (Stevens) Stephenson says
My mentor in the wrestling business and in life. I truly do not have the words to express my love and gratitude for EVERYTHING Jerry did for me and the countless hours we spent together. I love you and will see you on the other side, my friend.
Gregory Brown says
I was so glad I got to see Jerry Last Saturday and spend so time with Him, over The years after Oates Gym Closed we would Talk once or twice every Month, I will Truly Miss Him He was my Brother. Rest In Peace Jerry I Love You.🙏♥️
Kathy Gray says
I’m so sorry for your loss. I didn’t know Jerry well but all of my extended family did and they thought the world of him. Sending prayers for you all.
Betty Senesac says
This is one man that anyone would be proud to be called his friend. He understood to have one you needed to be one. He was my friend.
Ben Masters says
Jerry was one of the good ones. I always loved our conversations. He is missed already, but will never be forgotten. Rest my friend.
Joey Hostilo says
Jerry You Will Always Be Missed By So Many We Love You! Anyone Who Knew Him Or Met Him Loved Him The Gym World Will Never Be The Same! Until We Meet Again Boss! Rest In Peace! 💪🙏❤️
Cindy Fountain Hutto says
There are no words to say how I feel. I love this dear friend and will always remember him. Best friend a girl could ever have!!! Praying for Bo, Helen, the family and friends.
Thomas Renesto lll says
I am truly saddened and heart broken to hear of the passing of my friend Jerry. Jerry and my family go back many years I had the honor and pleasure of getting to wrestle Jerry years ago in Memphis a night off my thoughts and prayers to his family. Rest in peace my.
Tom Renesto Jr
TL Saint says
Im so sadden to here this,,,ive watched Jerry wrestle on T.V. since the 1970,s….met him and his lovely wife Miss Kathy in the early 1980s and started workin,out at Oates Gym from 1985-2000…..Jerry and Miss Kathy are strong influences in our community and even helped me thru rough times of my own…they will be missed but not forgotten..T.L.Saint
Janet Mauldin says
I am so sorry for the loss of your dad, Bo. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
David Hay says
I grew up down the street from the Oates family. Jerry’s mom drove Ted and I to Arnold junior high school in the eighth grade. In the Early 80s I started going to Oates Gym. All 135 pounds of me. Jerry welcomed me with open arms. There was no place like Oates Gym. No air conditioning a lot of free weights. And the best bunch of guys you could ever meet. I got to reconnect with him when he opened his gym On Armour Road. It was great seeing him again. I saw him again an Oates Gym Reunion several years ago. I think of him as I visit my mom down the street from where he lived and driving down Warm Springs Road where The gym was located.It changed my life and my body. I will never forget him.
Todd Fernandez says
Jerry was a mentor to me during my years at Auburn and I will never forget him. I’m sorry for your loss, Bo and family.
Tina Martinez says
Helen, Bo – Deepest Condolences 🙏
Gregory Keen- Eye Sims says
Jerry was one of those once in a lifetime type of people! One of nicest guys you could ever meet! I started my workout journey at Oates Gym back in 1982; it was the place to be! I met alot of good friends at Oates Gym! I’m gonna really miss Jerry and will always remember him! RIP my brother! 🙏
Dave Jones says
Jerry was one of a kind. If you knew him, you know what I am talking about. He and his lovely wife Kathy were a godsend to thousands who ventured into Oates Gym. Whether you needed better health, advice, or just a listening ear…they were always there. I am fortunate to have known him and called him my friend. Safe travels and I hope to see you again. RIP Jerry. Dave