Obituary of James Bates

James Lee Bates, 79, of Coffeyville, Kansas passed away on Wednesday, February 2, 2022, at his home peacefully with his wife by his side. James was born to Benjamin Albert Bates and Pearley Ruth (Williams) Bates on April 27, 1942, in Parsons, Kansas. He graduated from Wann High School in Wann, Oklahoma. He proudly served his country in the Army and honorably discharged. He was married to Mary Taylor. Of this union, four children were born. They later divorced. He married Cindy Brown in April of 1981 in Coffeyville, Kansas. They made their home in rural Coffeyville. James was a truck driver for many years, which he loved. He also trained fifty students for Prime Inc. in Springfield, Missouri. His fiftieth student just happened to be his wife, Cindy. before owning and operating Satellite Country. He retired in 2004. James loved the Lord and playing both the guitar and harmonicas at church. He was an avid fisherman and a big old heart for people in general. He was a loving husband and loved life living it to the fullest. He was preceded by his parents and stepmother, Irene Bates, three brothers, Elbert, Paul and Larry Bates, one sister, Audrey Daniels and his son, Raymond Bates. James is survived by his loving wife Cindy, two daughters, Leatha Cool of Newton, Kansas and Audrey Simpson and her husband, Roy of Newton, Kansas and son, James A. Bates of Coffeyville, Kansas. He is also survived by three sisters, Edna Doebel and husband Bob of South Coffeyville, Oklahoma, Theda Tatum and husband Doug of Sanders, Oklahoma and Donna O'Daniel of Coffeyville, Kansas, 2 brothers Garry Bates and wife Ranea of Bismark, North Dakota and Donald Bates and companion, Lynn of Kimball, Nebraska, eight grandchildren and numerous great-grandchildren. Following James' wishes, cremation has taken place and memorial service will be held at a later date. Memorial contributions may be made to Harry Hynes Memorial Hospice and can be left at the funeral home or mailed in care of David W. Barnes Funeral Home, 306 N. Cline Rd., Coffeyville, KS 67337. To leave an online message of condolence, please visit www.dwbfh.com. David W. Barnes Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.