Kurtis Earl “Poppa” Bateman, born November 3, 1945, of Nitro, WV left this earthly life on January 30, 2026. Kurtis was a proud Navy Veteran having served during the Vietnam Era. He was a firefighter, EMT and he belonged to the Painter’s Union. Serving people was his passion, not only career wise, but in his personal life as well.
Kurtis was funny, feisty, and the first to bring humor and laughter into any room. His greatest joy was making people feel loved and wanted.
He enjoyed football and was the number one fan of the Miami Dolphins.
Kurtis was predeceased by his parents Earl Wilson and Madeline Rose (Roberts) Bateman as well as his brothers.
He is survived by his caregiver and dear friend, Naomi Ruth Hughes; adopted daughter and son of heart, Jodi Cooper and Dexter Bates; and 5 children – Tonia Lee McDonald, Tracy Lynn Wilson, Tammy Jean Hutchinson, Denise Blakey and Kurtis Earl Bateman, Jr. He leaves behind a legacy of grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
In keeping with his wishes, Kurtis will be cremated and interred at Donel C. Kinnard Memorial State Veteran Cemetery. A memorial service will be held at a later date.
