J.P. Bates

J. P. Bates, 92, of Benton, TN passed away Friday morning, October 7, 2016 at his home. He was born April 28, 1924 in Polk County to the late Flavis and Burtie Lewis Bates. He was a lifelong member of Zion Baptist Church, loved ole time gospel music and going to church.

He was preceded in death by his brothers, Amos, Spence, F. E. and Lynn Bates; sisters, Chatty Long, Sudie Gilliland, Donnie Calhoun and Nell Smith.

He is survived by his loving and devoted wife of 69 years, Lois Johnson Bates; daughter, Vickie (David) Burris; son, Dennis Bates all of Benton, TN; granddaughter, Amanda Burris; grandson, Justin (Kara) Burris; great-grandchildren, Kimber and Carsen Burris.  A host of nieces and nephews also survive.

 J. P. was a WW II Veteran, served in the army in 1944 and was in France, Germany and Belgium. J. P. retired from Bowater after 36 years of service. He loved his family and was especially proud to say he was married for 69 years.  His grandkids were always special to him.  Amanda and Justin, he loved y’all dearly.  J. P. loved to farm, mow, work and was always busy.

Funeral services will be at 2:00 p.m. Monday, October 10, 2016 at Zion Baptist Church in Benton, TN with Reverend Mike Hazelwood and Reverend W. L. Shipman officiating.  Interment will follow in the church cemetery.

The family will receive friends from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Sunday, October 9, 2016 at Zion Baptist Church.  In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Zion Baptist Church, 953 Parksville Road, Benton, TN 37307.

Serving as pallbearers will be Justin Burris, David Burris, Wilson Rogers, Johnny Campbell, Greg Swyers, Dean Dunn, Gary Rogers and Tommy Blackburn.  Honorary pallbearers are Jerry Malone, Tommy Guthrie, Clifford Wilcox, Bobby Burchfield, Dub German and other retirees from Bowater wood yard.  

We invite you to send a message of condolence and view the Bates family guestbook at www.higginsfuneral.com.