William Arthur "Bill" Bates

Bill Bates, husband, father, teacher, coach, and veteran, passed away on September 25, 2025, at the age of 58. He was born April 26, 1967, in Lake Tahoe, California, to George Patrick Bates and Mary Adeline (James) Bates, Bill spent his early years in Wyoming before eventually settling in Arkansas, where he graduated from high school.

Following graduation, Bill answered the call to serve his country by joining the United States Army. He proudly served during Operation Desert Storm and continued his service in the Army National Guard for 16 years. Bill was fiercely proud of his military background and carried the values of discipline, integrity, and service into every part of his life.

After his active duty, Bill pursued higher education at the University of Arkansas, earning a bachelor's degree in English and Communications. He began his teaching career in Arkansas, where he taught English for five years before moving to North Texas. There, he became a cherished teacher, coach, and friend at Richardson North Junior High, known affectionately to his students and athletes as "Coach Bates."

It was at Richardson where Bill met fellow teacher and coach, Nicole. The two were married on September 11, 2004, in McKinney, Texas. Together, they raised four incredible children: Zachary, Savannah, Catherine, and Caleb.

Bill's passion for teaching and coaching extended far beyond the classroom and football field. He believed deeply in shaping young people into thoughtful, responsible adults-not just athletes or students. In the classroom, he inspired generations to read more, to read widely, and to think critically. On the field, he coached with heart, humor, and high expectations, always aiming to build character above all else.

A devoted father, Bill passed down his values of hard work, and perseverance to his children. He loved them so much and enjoyed telling anyone who would listen all about them.

Outside of work and family, Bill was an avid fan of the Pittsburgh Steelers, Army football, and Arkansas Razorbacks. He found peace and joy on the water, spending countless hours fishing from his boat wherever he could cast a line.

He is survived by his son Zachary Bates of McKinney, Texas; daughter, Savannah Bates of McKinney, Texas; Daughter, Catherine Bates of McKinney, Texas; son, Caleb Bates of McKinney; sister, Mary Reinholz; brother, Frank Bates; sister Beth Bates; uncle, Bill James; and a host of other loving family and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents George Patrick and Mary Adeline Bates.

A funeral service will be held at 2:00 p.m., Saturday, October 4, 2025, at Turrentine-Jackson-Morrow Funeral Chapel, 2525 Central Expressway North, Allen, Texas 75013. The service will also be live streamed at TJMfuneral.com on Bill's obituary page by clicking on the following link: https://celebrationoflife.tv/. After the service, the recorded live stream will be available for viewing at the same link location. Following the service, a procession will make its way to Ridgeview Memorial Park for a committal service.