Virgil Lee Bates Jr.

With deep love and gratitude for his life, the family of Virgil Lee Bates, Jr. announces his passing on Wednesday, August 27, 2025, at the age of 74, in Lakeland, Florida.

Virgil was born on October 11, 1950, in Moline, Illinois, to Virgil Lee Bates and Delores Louise Hanneman. His early years were marked by both joy and sorrow, as he tragically lost his father at the age of just seven. Despite that loss, Virgil grew into an outgoing, spirited, and compassionate man who never knew a stranger and never hesitated to offer a hand to someone in need.

He spent his childhood and youth between Illinois and California, eventually graduating from Southgate High School in Los Angeles. He later studied engineering at LeTourneau College in Longview, Texas, laying the foundation for a lifelong career built on hard work, skill, and a commitment to excellence. Even more divinely providential, it was at LeTourneau where he met Cynthia (Cindy) Jean Howell of Lakeland, Florida.

On July 2, 1973, Virgil married Cindy at Eaton Park Baptist Church in Lakeland, Florida, with her father, the late Reverend James Howell, officiating. Their love and partnership became the foundation of a family that grew to include children, grandchildren, and a determination to follow Christ.

Virgil was a man of many trades and talents, working as a mechanic, household do-it-yourselfer, fiberglass boat craftsman, welder, carpenter, and sales associate at multiple home improvement stores. However, he found his greatest fulfillment, and most meaningful career, as a metal fabrication shop engineer, designing and building components for the space, citrus juice processing, commercial bakery, phosphate, and various manufacturing industries. His work not only provided for his family but also contributed to the industries that shaped his community.

Faith was central to Virgil's life. He gave his heart to Jesus as a boy at summer camp and remained committed to his walk with Christ for the rest of his days. He was a faithful member of several Southern Baptist congregations over the years, including Oakland Heights Baptist Church in Longview, Texas, Medulla Baptist Church, and First Baptist/The Lakes Church in Lakeland, Florida. He was always ready and willing to sing in choirs, teach children, and live out his belief in service and kindness.

Virgil loved sports in his younger years, enjoying tennis, football, and softball. Later in life, he poured more of his energy into his family and community, delighting most in spending time with those he loved. Known for his humor, his warmth, and his gift for conversation, he brought joy and laughter wherever he went.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 52 years, Cynthia Jean Bates of Lakeland, FL; his son Virgil Lee Bates III of Lakeland, FL; his grandchildren Caleb Michael Lee Bates, Nora-Claire Louise Bates, Caroline Christine Bates, and Parker Monroe Bates, all of Lakeland, FL; his sisters Mardell (Bates) Becerra of Los Angeles, CA and Lorion (Bates) Brewer of Long Beach, CA; and numerous nieces and nephews who adored their "Uncle Virgil," or as many affectionately called him, "Big Virg."

He is preceded in death by his parents; his son Aaron James Bates (2022); and his grandson Aaron James Bates II (2022).

Virgil's life can best be remembered in three words: determined, generous, and joyful. His love for his family, his dedication to his work, and his faith in God will continue to inspire all who knew him.

A memorial service will be held on Monday, September 15th, at 5:30 p.m., in the chapel at The Lakes Church, 1010 East Memorial Boulevard, Lakeland, Florida, with Pastor Mark Creech presiding.

In lieu of flowers, the family invites memorial contributions to the international Christian ministry www.samaritanspurse.org.