Roger Bates

Roger Dale Bates, 71, of Thornton, passed away January 8, 2015 in Galveston, Texas. Graveside services will be 1:00 p.m., Monday, January 12, 2015 at Hamilton-Beeman Cemetery in Retreat (near Corsicana) with Rev. Billy Beever and Dan Curry officiating. Roger was born August 27, 1943 in Navarro County, Texas to James Thomas and Nova Rebecca Howard Bates. He owned and operated a mechanic shop and wrecker service in Houston for many years. Roger proudly served his country in the U.S. Air Force. After retirement, Roger enjoyed working around the farm. He was a hard worker who was willing to tackle any job no matter how large or small. He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, James Thomas Bates, Jr. and Tommy Joe Bates; sisters, Donnie Lee Dobbs and Dorothy Juanita Coker; and son, Jerry Glen Bates. Roger is survived by his children, Roger Dale Bates, Jr, Micheal David Bates, Cherie Dawn Potts and April Diane Bates; 16 grandchildren; 1 great-grandchild; two sisters, Dorris Loretta Curry and husband, Dan of Corsicana and Brenda Nell Willis and husband, Jimmy of Thornton; a special friend, Paul Barksdale; and a number of nieces and nephews. Honorary pallbearers will be Ryan Lynds, John Palos, Jacob Harrison and Jerry Lezer.