Richard Lee Bates

Richard Lee Bates, age 91, a resident of Cleveland, passed away Friday, December 21, 2018 at the family residence after a battle with lung cancer. He never smoked. He was the son of the late Mellie Young Bates and Clyde Bates. His wife of 62 years, Margaret McGowan Bates, his sisters, Annie Martin, Ollie Branam, Edna Clayton and Mary Sutton and his brothers, Joe, Charlie, Will and Herb Bates also preceded him in death. Mr. Bates was retired from Hardwick Stove Works with 46 years of service. He was known as a hard worker. He enjoyed working in his vegetable garden, taking care of his animals and working on any motor, tractor, lawnmower or car. Mr. Bates was a Christian. Survivors include his daughter and caregiver, Linda Kay Bates of Cleveland, his other caregivers, Maxine and Ted Johnson, B. J. Allen, Laura of Hospice of Chattanooga and several nieces and nephews also survive.The Remembrance of Life Service will be conducted Wednesday, December 26, 2018 at 6:00 P. M. at the Jim Rush Funeral and Cremation Services Wildwood Chapel with Reverend Clay Sutton officiating. Graveside Services and Interment will be conducted on Thursday at 10:00 A. M. at the Boanerges Baptist Church Cemetery with Dennis Bates, B. J. Allen, Michael Delay, Mason Holliday, Mike Galay and Ted Johnson serving as casket bearers. The family will receive friends from 4:00 until 6:00 P. M. Wednesday at the Jim Rush Funeral and Cremation Services Wildwood Chapel who has charge of the arrangements. You may share your condolences and your memories with the Bates family at www.jimrushfuneralhomes.com.Read Obituary