Billy Bates

Billy Ray Bates, born November 25, 1946, passed away on December 28, 2023 at the age of seventy-seven (77). He was born in the foothills of the Ozark Mountains in Alicia, Arkansas. As a very young boy, he moved north to Sparta, Michigan. There he was raised by his parents, Edna and Stanley Bates, with his two younger brothers, Dale and Danny Bates. Upon graduating from Sparta High School, Bill enlisted in the United States Army, becoming a member of the 11 th Pathfinder Company. He proudly served three tours of duty in Vietnam, spending his first tour with the First Cavalry Division, the second with the Americal Division and the last as an advisor with MACV. He will be laid to rest with his brothers in arms at the Fort Custer National Cemetery in Augusta, Michigan. After his discharge from the Army, Bill went on to start a family. He is survived by his sons, Matt Bates and Joe Lyon, his daughter, Jamie Badge, and numerous grandchildren. Bill was predeceased by his parents, brothers, and young son, Billy. Bill was best known for his work ethic and giving nature. He worked for thirty-two (32) years as a die setter and crane operator at the General Motors – Grand Rapids Metal Stamping Plant. However, his time at the shop was only the beginning of his day. He slept very little and spent his time coaching, building, landscaping and helping others. Despite being one of the toughest and most intimidating people in the room, Bill would give the shirt off his back to help a person in need. If someone had a home renovation project, he was the first person there, with toolbelt in hand. If someone was struggling financially, he was always the first to offer to help, expecting nothing in return. Bill was known by many names, some of his favorites were Dad, Grandpa (B-Pa), Sarge and a handful of others not appropriate to list here. Bill overcame a great deal of adversity in his lifetime. During that life, he accomplished many things, touched countless lives, and had a profound impact on this world. He will be greatly missed by many. Bill will be honored at the Fort Custer National Cemetery on Thursday, January 11, 2024 at 2:00 PM. To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Billy Bates, please visit our flower store.