Bruce Everett Bates Sr.

Bruce Everett Bates, Sr. was born on January 6, 1958, in Magnolia, Mississippi. Surrounded by his loving family, he transitioned to eternity on December 28, 2025, in Sachse, Texas.

Bruce graduated from South Pike High School in 1976. He went on to enlist in the United States Army and served from 1976 to 1982. He enjoyed a career as a Systems Engineer at Raytheon. A superior performer at Raytheon, he took pride in earning multiple accolades and awards throughout his tenure. After many years of service, he retired in 2013.

Affectionately regarded as "Pappadeaux," Bruce married his high school sweetheart, Gwendolyn Duncan, on November 23, 1978. To their union, two beautiful children - a son and a daughter - were loved and nurtured. The two remained united in holy matrimony until his transition.

Bruce delighted in many hobbies, including riding and watching trains, fishing, and supporting the Raiders and Lakers. He also had an avid fascination with big trucks, particularly 18-wheelers. He most enjoyed spending time with family and friends.

Bruce will be fondly remembered for his generous, jovial, and railfan nature. He was a hero to many, and his loving spirit will be missed by all who knew and loved him.

He was preceded in death by his father, James Bates, Sr.; mother, Lillie Beatrice (Clayton) Bates; father-in-law, Rev. Ernest Carter; mother-in-law, Ethel Mae (Anderson) Duncan; brothers-in-law, S.M. Duncan and Harrison Shaffer; and nephew, Arthur Hutchins, Jr.

Those left to cherish dear and lasting memories include his wife of 47 years, Gwendolyn Bates; son, Bruce Bates, Jr.; daughter, Candace Bates; grandsons, Xavier Carter Billiot, Gabriel Alexander Billiot, Jeremiah Brenton Billiot, and Braxton Elijah Billiot; brothers, James, Bates, Jr., Warren Bates (Sharon), Howard Bates, and Wendol Bates; sister, Rosemary Bates; brothers-in-law, Charles Anderson, Alphonse Duncan (Roselle), Walter Anderson (Tonette), Anthony Duncan, Jerry Duncan, sisters-in-law, Shirley Shaffer, Marilyn Anderson (Arthur, Sr.), Neicy Wilson (Calvin), Patricia Lenoir, and Cynthia Stepter (Mitchell); and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.