Larry Ernest Bates

Larry Ernest Bates, age 79, passed away peacefully on November 24, 2025, at Saint Thomas Rutherford in Murfreesboro, TN. Born to the late Ernest Bates and Helen Warren Bates, Larry grew up with a deep appreciation for family, laughter, and the simple joys of life - values he carried with him throughout his life.
Larry is preceded in death by his beloved wife, Lynda Bates, and his cherished daughter, Connie Davis, whose memory he held close to his heart.
He is survived by his sons, Larry (Jody) Mullins of Murfreesboro, Danny Bates of Shelbyville, and Jamie (Jennifer) Bates of Shelbyville; his brother, Danny Bates of Wartrace; his sister, Carolyn Sumner of Shelbyville; his grandchildren, Nikki (Samuel) Saputo, Stephen Mullins, Zachery Cooper, Spencer Davis, Mason Davis, Jaylenn (Brycen) Brown and Jacob Bates and his great-grandchildren, Elayna Cooper,Preston Mullins, Dakota Saputo, Liam Saputo, Emma Leigh Davis, Baker Brown, Elliot Keith Davis and Parker Brown.
Larry's love for his family was steady and strong, and he took great pride in every generation that followed him.
Known for his contagious laugh, Larry had a way of filling a room with joy. His quick wit and unforgettable sense of humor made him someone people loved to be around - he could always lift someone's spirits with a joke, a grin, or just the sound of his laughter.
Larry cherished time outdoors, especially when he was fishing, a pastime that brought him peace and countless cherished memories. The water was where he felt most at home.
Above all, Larry was a devoted father, grandfather, great-grandfather, uncle and friend. He loved his boys deeply and found tremendous happiness in watching his grandchildren and great-grandchildren grow. His legacy is one of humor, warmth, and unwavering love.
A Funeral Service will be held at Feldhaus Memorial Chapel in Shelbyville, TN, on Friday, November 28, 2025, at 2:00 p.m.
The family will receive guests at the chapel from 11:00 a.m. until service time.
Both Gowen-Smith Chapel and Feldhaus Memorial Chapel are honored to assist the Bates family with the arrangements of Mr. Bates.
Larry will be dearly missed, but his laughter, stories, and love will live on in all who were blessed to know him.