Dewayne Michael Dates

Dewayne Michael Dates, a skilled contractor whose talents extended to many crafts, passed away on April 4, 2026. Born on April 14, 1973, Dewayne’s life was marked by hard work, dedication, and a commitment to those around him. He will be remembered with great respect for his craftsmanship and the quiet strength he brought to every endeavor.

Dewayne’s educational journey began at Racine Apostic Christian School in Racine, Missouri, where he laid the foundation for a life of integrity and devotion. Throughout his career, he applied his skills with diligence and pride, leaving a lasting impact on those who had the privilege of working alongside him.

He was preceded in death by beloved family members who shaped much of his life’s story: his father, the late Lee A. Shorter; his cherished daughter, Natasha M. Dates; his oldest sibling, Angela Dates-Smith; his grandmother, Zella Dates; three aunts, Dellana Peters, Lucille Gilmore, and Velma R. Bester; and his uncle, Bobby Dates. Their memories remain a treasured part of Dewayne’s legacy.

Dewayne leaves to cherish a loving and supportive family who will carry forward his memory with honor. He is survived by his mother, Charlene DatesShorter of Beebe, Arkansas; his granddaughter, Iris Willow Cusick of Joplin, Missouri; and seven sisters: Tina (Floyd) Dates of Atlanta, Georgia, Chirlene Woodard of Poplarville, Mississippi, Janice (Billy) Smith of Beebe, Arkansas, Patricia Dates of Vicksburg, Mississippi, Cynthia Shorter (Danny Perez) of North Little Rock, Arkansas, Robin R. Hardge of Beebe, Arkansas, and Tammy E. Dates of North Little Rock, Arkansas. He is also survived by brothers Lee A. Shorter, Jr., of Joplin, Missouri, Timothy James Shorter of Beebe, Arkansas, and Derrick Christopher (Leah) Shorter of Sherwood, Arkansas. Additionally, Dewayne is remembered fondly by a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives, and dear friends, including Moses Brown and Lawrence Hardge.

A visitation to honor Dewayne’s memory will be held on April 17, 2026, from 1:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at the C J Williams Mortuary Center, located at 1625 Monroe Street, Vicksburg, Mississippi. Following this, the funeral service will take place on April 18, 2026, beginning at 11:00 a.m.  These moments will provide an opportunity for family, friends, and all whose lives were touched by Dewayne to come together, reflect, and celebrate the profound impact he made.

Dewayne Michael Dates' life was one of quiet accomplishment and deep love for his family. His memory will be cherished by all who knew him, and his legacy of craftsmanship, strength, and kindness will continue to inspire. May he rest in peace.