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Known to many as 'Mr. Music,' he carried a love of music and recreation that reflected his energy and spirit.

Gerald Nathaniel Batey departed this life on September 23, 2026, at the age of 77. Born on August 13, 1949, Gerald lived a life marked by service, faith, dedication to work, and deep family connection.

Gerald accepted Christ at an early age and was a member of Fairfield Baptist Church. His faith remained an important part of his life and helped shape the steady, committed way he moved through the world. He was also especially proud of his service to his country as a United States Army Vietnam Veteran.

A 1969 graduate of Cameron High School, Gerald was drafted into the United States Army shortly after graduation. In December of that same year, he was deployed overseas during the Vietnam Conflict, where he served as a military police officer. After completing his tour in Vietnam, he returned to the United States and, over a year later, received an honorable discharge. His military service stood among the accomplishments he valued most.

Following his return home, Gerald continued his education at Draughon’s Business College in Nashville, where he earned a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration. During that time, he attended classes during the day and worked evenings as a service attendant at Hambrick’s Shell Service Station on 8th Avenue South. The station was owned and operated by Samuel Hambrick, Sr., a respected local business owner and community figure. After completing college, Gerald worked as an Insurance Investigator with Equifax, Inc., where his responsibilities centered heavily on fieldwork and localized background checks. He later began a long and faithful career with NES, from which he retired after more than 30 years of service.

Gerald will also be remembered for the joy he brought to everyday life. He previously played tennis and basketball, was an avid bowler, and enjoyed working as a DJ. Known to many as “Mr. Music,” he carried a love of music and recreation that reflected his energy and spirit.

He leaves to cherish his memory his son, Gerald L. (Moneak) Batey, and his daughter, Jasmine R. Batey. He is also survived by his sisters Carol (George) Claybrooks, Evelyn Nevels, Chip, Dr. Janet Finch, Adrienne Quinn, and Wilma Pollard, Gregory Mitchell, Ardis Mitchell, and Andre Mitchell. His memory will be treasured as well by his grandchildren, Cpt. Gerald M. Batey and Carrie Batey, Germyah Batey, Dr. Gernie Batey, and Raymon Batey, and by his great-grandchildren, Chloe, Taylen, and Micah. Gerald also leaves behind his devoted friend, Janise Cosby, and his devoted cousin, JW Mitchell, together with many other relatives and loved ones who will hold him close in their hearts.

He was preceded in death by his father, James Mitchell; his mother, Evelyn Batey; his brothers Raymond Batey, Larry “Lockup” Batey, Wilbur Mitchell, and Vincent Mitchell; and his sister, Vickie Donelson.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, September 30, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. until 12:00 p.m. at Community Fellowship Church of the Nazarene, 630 Richards Rd., Antioch, TN 37013, with the funeral service to follow at 12:00 p.m. at the same location. Burial will take place on Thursday, October 1, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at Trigg Memory Acres in Cadiz, Kentucky.

Gerald Nathaniel Batey will be remembered with respect and gratitude for his military service, his long working life, his love of music and sports, and the enduring bonds he shared with family and friends. His life leaves a lasting impression on all who knew and loved him.