Oliva Bates was born on January 13, 1944, to the late Harold Bates and the late Thelma Bates, in Spartanburg, SC. He was educated in the Spartanburg County School system. Oliva was previously employed with Petty Construction. His favorite NFL team was the Dallas Cowboys, and his favorite color was blue. Oliva loved to eat and that was his favorite pastime.

Oliva was preceded in death, along with his parents, by his brother Curtis Bates.

Oliva leaves to cherish fond and loving memories to his wife Elizabeth Bates; daughter, Harriett (Benjamin) Means; sons, Ronnie Bogan, Timothy Bogan, and Wilkes Haney all of Spartanburg, SC; sister, Carolyn Bates of Wellford, SC; sister-in-law, Donna Bates; aunt, Mary Ellen Rickard (Sammie Singly) of Newberry, SC; uncle, J.P. Toland of Newberry, SC;  nine grandchildren and a host of great-grandchildren, best friend, Roosevelt "Red" Webb of Spartanburg, SC; nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.

On January 24, 2023, "Ollie" transitioned peacefully at the Spartanburg Medical Center. His life, love, and legacy will forever be cherished by those who knew him.