Robert L. Bates

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.

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