Johnny Lee Bates

Johnny Bates, 74, of Benton went to his heavenly home on August 31, 2021.  

Johnny was born on October 7, 1946, to the late Harley and Magalene Bates.  He grew up in the Greasy Creek community where he raised four beautiful children.  Johnny retired from Vulcan Materials Company in 2009 after 38 years of faithful service.  He was a dedicated member of Greasy Creek Baptist Church.

In addition to his parents, Harley and Magalene Bates, he was preceded in death by his two sisters.

Left to cherish his memory include his loving wife of 21 years, Bonita Link Bates; sons, Kevin Bates, Jeremy Bates, and Allen (Becky) Bates; daughter, Tammy Bates Newell; stepdaughter, Stephanie (Mike) Zuidema; brothers, Kenneth Bates, and Gordon Bates; sisters, Helen Bates, Jerri Weaver, Lorene Jones, Deva Jones, Sherry Daniels, and Patricia Rush; nine grandchildren, three great-grandchildren and host of friends also survive.  Johnny had a special place in his heart for Dennis King and Darrius Wilcox.

A private Celebration of Life graveside service will be conducted at Benton Memorial Gardens with Pastor Charles Moore officiating.  Johnny’s family will serve as pallbearers.

Expressions of sympathy may be shared with the family at www.HigginsFuneral.com.

Arrangements are entrusted to Higgins Funeral Home of Benton.