Mr. James Clifford Bates Obituary - Visitation & Funeral Information

Mr. James Clifford Bates, 89, of Canon, GA passed away on January 22, 2021, after complications from the Covid-19 virus. James worked his entire career with Kraft Foods, Inc. and retired after 40 years of service. He was drafted and honorably served in Korea with the United States Army. He was assigned to building procurement/logistics and managed lumber and textile shipments used to build and expand Taegu Air Force base. The base and surrounding infrastructure are still present in South Korea today. He was a faithful member of the Pleasant Grove Baptist Church in Bowman, GA. James was preceded in death by his parents, E.H. Bates and Lois Eastes Bates; his wife, Margaret Avenelle Bates; brother, Bill Bates; and sister, Francis Bates Garrett. Survivors include his daughter and son-in-law, Kay Bates Elrod and David, of Grayson, GA and family; son and daughter-in-law, Paul Ray Bates and Sherea, of Dahlonega, GA and family; brother and sisters-in-law, Alvin Ray Bates and Marion of Austin, TX and family, and, Dempsey and Linda Denman of Garland, TX and family. James was blessed with seven grandchildren, seven great-grandchildren, eight nieces (one of which has passed), and five nephews. Although saddened by his sudden departure, James left a legacy of faith in Christ as his Savior and Lord to his children, grandchildren, and all who crossed his path. As his family, there is no doubt that he has heard the familiar voice of Christ declaring, “Well done, my good and faithful servant; you have been faithful over a few things, I will make you ruler over many things. Enter into the joy of your Lord” (Matthew 25:23). Funeral services for Mr. Bates will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, February 6th, in the Pleasant Grove Baptist Church in Bowman, GA, with Dr. Chris Pritchett and Rev. Paul R. Bates officiating. Interment will follow in the church cemetery. Please note, for the safety of everyone, social distancing will be observed throughout the church sanctuary and graveside service. Jason Defoe, Craig Whitley, Maurice Hines, Patrick Tyson, John Bittinger and John Todd will serve as pallbearers; along with Morris Phillips and Wendell McCall serving as honorary pallbearers. Due to Covid-19 virus concerns we regret that there will be no family visitation offered prior to the scheduled funeral service. Pruitt Funeral Home in Royston, GA is in charge of arrangements.

Mr. James Clifford Bates

October 9, 1931 - January 22, 2021

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