Billy Joe Bates, Sr.

Billy Joe Bates, Sr. passed away November 4, 2024 with his family by his side.

Bill is what his friends and family called him. He was born in Waco, TX to John Raymond Bates and Mary Margaret Bates on July 21,1938. There were 8 children born to John and Mary: Johnny Ray Bates, Billy Bates, Tommy Bates, Doyle Lee Bates, David Bates, Donny Bates, Mary Bates Moore, and Linda Bates Mahan.

Bill was married to Sharon Ardry Bates on May 28, 1963. They had a wonderful 61+ years together. They enjoyed playing 42 with friends and going to Sul Ross Senior Center where they were blessed with so many more friends. Bill retired from Pennzoil Oil Company at the age of 51 and started buying and selling homes. Bill and Sharon’s favorite names for each other was “Baby”!

Bill was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Johnny Ray Bates, Doyle Lee Bates, and Donny Lee Bates; and his son Rev. Bobby Joe Bates.

Survivors include his wife, Sharon; children, Shelia Jones (Sonny), Troy Bates, Billy Joe Bates, Jr. (Brenda), and Sharon Huber (Alan); grandchildren, Corey A. Thompson, Marisa Bates, Britnee Bates, Brandon Candis, Dwight Roehl, Emily Bates, and Rev. Cody Bates; along with several great-grandchildren.

Amy Williams will sing the songs Bill requested, and Danny Ragland will be singing Bill and Sharon’s favorite song. Officiating will be Rev. Cody Bates, Bill’s grandson.

Visitation will be Thursday, November 7th from 6-8 pm at OakCrest Funeral Home. Graveside service will be Friday, November 8th at 1 pm at Oakwood Cemetery.