John L. Bates

John L. Bates, a man of deep faith and unwavering love, passed away peacefully on June 9, 2024, in Dublin, GA, at the age of 82. Born on November 17, 1941, in Empire, GA, John was the cherished son of the late Arthur Marion Bates and Laura Susan Jones Bates. He was a devoted husband to his beloved wife, Glenda Faye Morris Bates, with whom he shared a lifetime of love and commitment.

In addition to his wife, he is survived by his sons: Tom Bates (Teresa), Sam Bates (Ray Mills), and Nathaniel Bates; grandchildren, Dakota Bates (Kelsie), Brittni Bates (Jeff Scott), Emma Bates, Levi Bates, and Spencer Jerdon; great-grandchildren, Marshall Scott, Everette Bates, Georgia Bates, Perri June Scott, Lucy Bates, and Arthur Bates; brother, W.L. Bates (Joanne); and numerous nieces and nephews and extended family.

He is preceded in death by his parents; daughter, Christy Bates Jerdon; granddaughter, Hannah Bates; sisters, Leora Bates, Trenna Bates Barrs, Lavanda Bates Jones, Delsa Bates Taylor, Erma Jean Bates Kroessor; brothers, Charles Arvin Bates, Arley Merle Bates, Rupert Nephi Bates, Paul Lamont Bates, and Sonny Bates.

John's early life in Empire laid the foundation for a lifetime of service and dedication. After completing his education with a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice from Georgia Southern University, he proudly served his country as an E3 Airman Second Class in the United States Air Force. His commitment to his community continued long after his military service, as he became a respected engineer with Bell South, from which he eventually retired.

A man of profound spirituality, John was an active and dedicated member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. His service to the church was multifaceted; he led with compassion and wisdom as a Bishop and touched the lives of many young individuals as a Scout Master with the Boy Scouts of America. John's involvement with the Telephone Pioneers further exemplified his commitment to fellowship and community.

John's interests were a reflection of his love for the simple pleasures in life. He found joy in piddling and farming, taking pride in working with his hands and nurturing the earth. Saturdays often found him cheering for Georgia Football, a pastime that brought him great excitement. Above all, John was faithful to his Lord and Savior and to his family, whom he cherished above all else.

The family will receive friends at a BBQ gathering on Friday, June 21, 2024, at 6:00 PM at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter- Day Saints, 1605 Green Street, Dublin, GA.

A service celebrating John’s life will be held at 11:00 AM on Saturday, June 22, 2024, at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, Dublin Ward. Burial will follow at Dublin Memorial Gardens.

The family requests no flowers. Memorial contributions may be made to the Breast Cancer Foundation or the American Cancer Society.

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