Joe Ray Bates

Joe Ray Bates, 83, of Martin, TN died Thursday, July 3, 2014 at Volunteer Community Hospital. Funeral services for Mr. Bates were held Saturday, July 5, 2014 at 12:00 Noon at Bowlin Funeral Home Chapel in Dresden with burial following in Sunset Cemetery.

Mr. Bates was born January 9, 1931 in Atwood, TN to the late L.L. and Grace Bulington Bates. He was retired Vice President of Kellwood Corporation and a member and deacon of Oak Grove Baptist Church in Dresden. Joe is survived by his wife, Martha Lynn Crocker Bates of Martin, son; Steve (Amy) Bates of Martin, three grandchildren and four great grandchildren. In addition to his parents he was also preceded in death by a son, Gary Bates, and sisters Bertie Mathis and Doris McCartney.