Continuing The Celebration For

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Life’s Journey

Robert Lee Bates was born Saturday, May 5, 1956, in Natchez, Mississippi. He was the 6th child of 10 to his loving parent Elijah and Pearlina Bates. Robert accepted Christ and was baptized early in life at Southwood Lodge Baptist Church where he still held a membership. He received his education in the Natchez Public School District. After graduating from North Natchez High School, he enlisted in the United States Army and served from 1975 to 1978 once he completed his duty to the Army, he attended Chopish-Lincoln Junior College. After leaving college he worked alongside his father, brothers and uncles in carpentry for his father’s business Bates Construction. Robert decided to move to Houston, Texas to pursue and explore more opportunities in life. Upon his arrival to Houston Robert worked for his brother at Bates Security and later moved into the profession of Logistic until his illness in 2008. 

Robert met and married Carolyn and to this union there are 4 children and 7 grandchildren. 

Robert was a very independent and prideful. His greatest accomplishment was being a leader and provider for his family. Outside of that nothing else really mattered. He enjoyed spending quality time with his family and friends, playing basketball, traveling, playing the card game tonk and watching tv especially sports. He did not like any interruption or disturbances while doing so. He wasn’t a man of many words or emotions however he had a comical personality. If Robert liked you, he would move mountains for you but if you crossed him or his loved ones you would not like the outcome, he was very no nonsense at this point.  

On Monday, July 1, 2024, ROBERT LEE BATES entered into eternal rest. Robert was proceeded in death by his parents Elijah and Pearlina, brothers Lee Edwards and Donnell, sisters LeAnna and Dorothy, nephew Kejuan and paternal and maternal aunts and uncles. 

Robert life will be cherished and celebrated by his wife Carolyn Bates, children Demarcus Watson, Robert Devonte’ Bates (Chelsie), Latara Davis and LaCreesha’ Bates. Grandchildren Kayla Watson, Jaylin Davis, JaCorrian Davis, Serenity Taylor, Ari Bates, Da’Liyah McGinnis and Sa’Mari Bates. Siblings John Bates (Dasiy), Charles Bates, Randy Bates and Nathaniel Bates (Rachel). A host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.