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PWInsider.com is saddened to report the passing of Jerry Oates at the age of 81.
The Oates family issued the following:
Family Statement on the Passing of Jerry Oates:
It is with heavy hearts that the family of Jerry Oates announces his passing.
Born in Columbus, Georgia, Jerry lived a full and impactful life marked by his passion for professional wrestling, fitness, and service to his community. From 1970 to 2010, he enjoyed a distinguished career as a professional wrestler. He owned and operated the Oates Gym, a cornerstone of the Columbus fitness community for more than two decades. He also promoted bodybuilding and wrestling events and later served as a deputy with the Tybee Island Police Department and the Muscogee County Sheriff’s Office. Jerry touched countless lives through his strength, generosity, and enduring spirit.
A memorial service will be held on Saturday, September 12. Details to follow.
A native of Columbus, Georgia, Oates broke into the wrestling world in the early 1970s after being trained by his brother-in-law, Dick Steinborn. Oates was a great technician in the ring and teamed with his brother Ted in a number of NWA territories as well as All Japan Pro Wrestling.
As a singles star, Jerry Oates held the Central States and Pacific Northwest Championships. With his brother Jerry, Ted held The NWA Georgia Tag Team Championship and they also held the All Japan Pro Wrestling All Asian Tag Team belts. Jerry Oates held the NWA National Tag Team Championship with Ronnie Garvin. In the Pacific Northwest, he and Jesse Ventura held the PNW Tag Team Championship. In Central States Wrestling, he and Mike George held the Tag Belts as well.
Beyond his work inside the squared circle, Oates worked as a trainer, helping to breakj Marty Jannetty among others into the business. He also promoted Great Championship Wrestling in the Columbus, Georgia area.
PWInsider.com sends our deepest condolences to The Oates family as well as Jerry Oates' friends and fans.
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