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Raymond James Coates, 82, of Lakeland, passed away on March 20, 2019. He was born in Woodbury, New Jersey on September 30, 1936 to the late Carlton and Irma Coates.

Raymond James Coates was raised in Wenonah, New Jersey. He graduated from Pitman High School. During his formative years, he was involved in several organizations and received the Eagle Scout award. In 1959, he graduated from Lehigh University with a Bachelor of Science degree in Electrical Engineering with honors. While employed at General Electric, he attended Syracuse University for a Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering. He was a member of Eta Kappa Nu and Tau Beta Pi (both engineering societies) and Christian Council. Was a member of the Methodist church wherever he lived including: Wenonah, New Jersey, Bethlehem, Pennsylvania (while attending Lehigh University), Syracuse, New York (during his career with GE), Crystal Lake (while living in Citrus Woods after retirement) and First United Methodist Church in Lakeland, Florida (since December 10, 2006). He was an avid sports fan, enjoyed playing golf and bridge. His most recent residence was at the Estates at Carpenters in Lakeland since June 2015.

Survivors include his cousin Eileen (Charles) Whalen in Grapevine, Texas; cousins Jason (Becky) Whalen and their son Milo Whalen in Brooklyn/New York, Melissa (Matt Whooley) Whalen in Salt Lake City/Utah, and Christopher Whalen in Arlington/Texas; Bill Martin in Weems, Virginia; relatives and friends.

Relatives and Friends may visit from 10 am to 11 am on Monday April 1st at Smith Funeral Home, 47 Main Street, Mantua, NJ. Burial will follow in Eglington Cemetery, Clarksboro, NJ. Memories and condolences can be shared at www.smithfhmantua.com