Mr. Joe Henry Bates

Mr. John Henry Bates, affectionately known as “J.H.”, “Big Daddy”, and “Big D”, was born September 23, 1929, in Neilberg, MS to the late Marshall and Mary Bell Bates. Joe was the eldest of six children born to their union, of whom four preceded him in death; Walter Bates, Charles Bates, Zelena Bates Gilmore and Willie James Bates. On February 15, 2017, God whispered to Joe to come unto Him and rest. Joe confessed a hope in Christ at an early age and untie with Pilgrim Hill United Methodist Church. During his tenure at Pilgrim Hill, he served faithfully as a member of the United Methodist Men, Trustee Board, Steward and Chairman of Finance. He also aided his wife faithfully at New Prospect Baptist Church, Savoy until they both had a decline in health. Joe attended school in Nellieburg community and later graduated from Harris High School in 1950. After graduating, he was drafted into the United States Army in 1951 and was honorably discharged in 1956 as a Corporal. During his enlistment, he served in the Korean War and was awarded a Medal of Honor. Upon returning home, Joe met the love of his life and on May 11, 1955 was joined in holy matrimony to Willie Mae DuBose, who preceded him in death, February 25, 2015. To this union four children were born: Sylvia, Glen, Jerome and Scotty. Joe was a gifted professional carpenter and contractor, doing residential and commercial construction. In 1983, he accepted employment with Meridian Housing Authority. After many accomplishments, he retired as Maintenance Supervisor, in November 2000. He was known for his carpentry craftsmanship and leadership throughout the Meridian area. He served as a board member of the Southwest Water Association and the South Volunteer Fire Department. He was a member of the Lauderdale County Extension Services and worked as a 4-H leader along with his wife for more than 50 years. For the young men in the area, he served as barber and provided transportation for school activities. He devoted his life to helping whomever he could, including caring for his father and mother, father-in-law, brother-in-law and his wife’s aunt. To cherish his memories, Joe is survived by one daughter, Sylvia Gibson (Walter) Jackson, MS; three sons, Elder Glen Bates (Mary), Pastor Jerome Bates (Sheila) and Reginald “Scotty” Bates, all of Meridian, MS; one brother, Clinton Bates (Lela); one sister-in-law, Elise Bates; one brother-in-law, George R. DuBose, Peru, Indiana; five grandchildren, two great-grandsons and a host of nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.

Mr. Joe Henry Bates

September 23, 1929 - February 15, 2017