Timothy Bates

Timothy Bates was born in Alberta, Alabama on January 9, 1931 to the late Mr. Frank Bates and Mrs. Edna Johnson Bates. After graduating from Wilcox Training School in Millers Ferry, Alabama, he left to serve his country proudly in the United States Army. Timothy later married Fannye, the love of his life, in 1955. During his distinguished military career of 25 years, Timothy served one tour of duty in Korea and two tours of duty in Vietnam. Upon his retirement, Timothy began employment in Law Enforcement and Security at White Sands Missile Range in New Mexico. After 15 plus years, he decided it was time to enjoy being permanently retired. Timothy was a faithful member of First Air Defense Chapel. He prided himself on being a community service advocate. He dedicated years of tireless service volunteering at H.E. Charles Middle School. Additionally, Timothy was a faithful and dedicated member of several lodges in the Masonic family. He was also a member of Oro Temple #9. He participated in many community events throughout his tenure with these organizations. Timothy enjoyed striking up conversations with anyone, about almost anything, but he was particularly fond of discussing family history with family members and speaking to soldiers about their experiences in the military. Timothy was also an avid fitness buff and participated in a regular exercise routine well into his later years. Timothy was preceded in death by his parents, Frank and Edna Bates; his loving wife of 47 years, Fannye West Bates; brothers, Andrew Bates and Mark Bates; sister, Maryella Montgomery. Timothy entered into his eternal rest early Sunday morning, August 5, 2018. Leaving to cherish his memories are, One son, Reginald Timothy Bates of Chandler, AZ; Two daughters, Daphine Denise Bates of Upland, California, and Gwendolyn Valencia Jones of McKinney, TX; Five brothers, Samuel (Mary) Bates of Stamford, CT, Clarence (Hattie) Bates of Stamford, CT, David Bates, of Stamford, CT, Jack (Jerry) Bates of New Castle, DE, Barnard (Bertha) Bates of Richmond, VA; Five sisters, Evelyn Bates Dobbins of Stamford, CT, Millie Bates Moye of Salina, KS, Annie Bates of Salina, KS, Geraldine Bates Weatherspoon of Alberta, Phillis Bates (Robert) Young of Mobile, AL; One sister-in-law, Janice Bates of Chattanooga, TN; One goddaughter Lakeesha (John) Lockett-Burr, Very close and longtime friend of the family, Harvey (Caroila) Jones; Five grandchildren, Dedrick, Shamonie, Latoya, Ave' and Jireh; Eleven great-grandchildren and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. Visitation will be from 5:00pm to 9:00pm with Tributes at 6:00pm on Wednesday, August 15, 2018 at Sunset Funeral Home Northeast. Funeral Service will begin at 9:30am on Thursday, August 16, 2018 at Sunset Funeral Home Northeast. Committal Service will follow at 11:00am at Fort Bliss National Cemetery with Full Military Honors.