Eric Dewitt Coats Obituary

Eric Dewitt Coats, 53, passed away on April 25, 2026, at his home in Franklinton, North Carolina.

Eric was born on August 20, 1972, in Vance County, North Carolina, to Fred and Hope Coats.

He worked as a Parts Manager for Leith Automotive Group. Outside of work, Eric cherished time with his family—especially days in the woods hunting with his boys and quiet moments fishing. A devoted sports fan, he did not miss a chance to cheer on the NC State Wolfpack, and he took immense pride in coaching his children and being involved in their lives. Those moments meant the world to him. He was also an active member of several hunting clubs, including Mitchner's Crossroads Hunting Club and Fork Gun Club.

Eric is survived by his parents, Fred Dewitt Coats Jr. and Hope Coats; his brother, Kevin (Buttons) Coats; his wife, Jamie Coats; and his children, Jacob Coats, Kameron (Chase) Crawford, and Parker Coats. He is also survived by his aunts, Karen Coats and Sandra Medlin; his mother- and father-in-law, Freddie and Charlene Finch; his sisters-in-law, Callie (Jason) Manning and Crystal Edwards; along with many cousins, nieces, nephews, and great-nieces and great-nephews.

He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Eric and Maude Medlin and Fred and Mary Ann Coats, as well as his uncle, Darrell Medlin.

A visitation and funeral service will be held on Saturday, May 2, at 2:00 p.m. at Franklinton Baptist Church, 102 W Mason St, Franklinton, North Carolina.

We invite all who knew and loved Eric to join us in honoring his memory. The family request that attendees to dress casually.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the charity of your choice in Eric's honor.