John Bates

John Wesley Bates, 83, died Friday, April 12, 2013 at his residence.

A native of Columbia, SC, he was the son of the late John Wesley Bates, Sr. and Wilene Bachelor Bates. John retired from the United States Nuclear Regulatory Commission as a Safe Guard Inspector. He served his country in the US Navy during the Korean Conflict aboard the USS Mississippi EAG 128. As a faithful member of Loganville Baptist Church, he was a deacon, choir member, head of philanprothy and participated in the men's prayer group. He was a loving husband, father and grandfather.

Survivors include his wife of 54 years, Mary Katherine Bates; sons: Brett Allen Bates of Bogart, Jeffery Earl Bates of Lawrenceville; grandchildren: Alyssa Bates, Ryan Bates, Eli Earhart and Luke Earhart. He was preceded in death by one son, Bradley Whitman Bates.

Funeral services will be held Monday, April 15, 2013 at 6pm at Loganville Baptist Church with Rev. Rusty Ruark officiating. The family will receive friends two hours prior to the service at the church. The family also received friends from 6 to 8 Sunday at Lord & Stephens West Chapel.

In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to Loganville Baptist Church, 132 Church Street, Loganville, GA 30052.

Lord & Stephens West is in charge of arrangements.