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William Bates Obituary
Ridgeland
William Ellison Bates, 73, of Ridgeland, MS, passed away on Thursday, January 17, 2013, at Hospice Ministries of Ridgeland.
Born on October 4, 1939, in Meridian, MS, Bill was the son of the late Lyle and Jane Bates of Jackson. A 1957 graduate of Murrah High School, he served as senior class president , captain of the football team, and was an Eagle Scout. He received a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Oklahoma, where he was president of Sigma Nu fraternity, and an MBA from the University of Michigan.
Bill served as a captain in the United States Air Force for four years. He went on to work for Arthur Anderson in Houston and Dallas before returning to Jackson as Executive Vice President of Security Savings and Loan. He later, after years of serving as both an active volunteer and board member, worked for United Way of the Capital Area.
Bill loved spending time at his hunting camp with friends and cheering on the Ole Miss Rebels, but he cherished most the time spent with his grandchildren. With a servant's heart, Bill actively sought opportunities to help others. He was a member of Explorers Bible Study and attended St. Columb's Episcopal Church.
Bill is survived by his wife of 40 years, Ronnie Bates; his daughter, Brette Bates(George Lobsenz ); his sons, Cliff Bates (Amy)and Ham Bates(Lacey); his brother , Lyle Bates, Jr.(Cela) ; his aunt, Mary Allen, his grandchildren, Charlie and Olivia Lobsenz, Ellis , Owen, and Levi Bates, and Baylor and Britton Bates, and his nephews; Chris and Scott Bates.
Visitation will be held at St. Columb's Episcopal Church, Ridgeland, MS on Sunday, January 20, 2013 from 4-6 pm and at 10 am Monday, January 21, 2013. Funeral service will be held at 11 am Monday following visitation.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests contributions be made in memory to 200 Million Flowers Adoption Agency, 128 North Maple Street • Suite A • Ridgeland, Mississippi 39157 or The American Cancer Society, 1380 Livingston Lane, Jackson, MS 39213
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for William Bates
Tony and Pat Monk
January 27, 2013
Lyle, Cela and Family, so very sorry to hear about the loss of your brother. Have been away so were unable to be at services, but know that you are in our thoughts and prayers.
Love to you, Pat and Tony
Martha Watkins
January 22, 2013
Ronnie, I am so sorry to learn of Bill's death. I only met him a couple of times, but I could tell he was a kind, gentle, man. He could really cook good tenderloin on the grill! Please know that my prayers and thoughts are with you and your family.
Love,
Martha
Steven Pickett
January 21, 2013
Bill was such a fine man and a real community hero. I met Bill in the course of many meetings with the United Way. The world will miss this man character. Deepest sympathy to the wonderful family and thank you for sharing Bill with us -- Bill Bates contributions made Metro Jackson a better place.
January 21, 2013
Ms. Bates - I am so sorry to hear about Mr. Bates. He was a great person and always so nice. One of my favorite bosses I have ever had. I loved working for him at Security Savings and seeing him at the tennis courts. I always had fun when he brought a dog with him! I will be thinking of you and your family. Susan Ming.
January 21, 2013
Ronnie, I am very sorry about your husband's passing, you will be in my thoughts and prayers. I do know what you are going through,when you feel like talking I would love to hear from you, Vicki McDowell
George Blackburn
January 20, 2013
Bates family: I am so very sorry to hear of Bill's passing. I will always fondly remember the times at Glory. I am a richer person for knowing all of you. George
January 20, 2013
God is near to those that are broken at heart and those crushed in spirit he saves. God will sustain you and help you to endure.
Gene Fly
January 19, 2013
To Ronnie and Lyle,
Billy's passing has been so sudden and sad that I don't know how to express myself. I can only imagine how difficult this has been for you and your family. Seeing Billy's photo brought back so many old memories of growing up in Jackson. He reminds me so much of Big Lyle. I sincerely express my deepest sympathy for you and your family.
January 19, 2013
What a treasure we have all lost. A picture is worth a thousand words..and his shows what a special person he was. Love to all of you. Lynn
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