July 1, 2018
Anthony Neal “Tony” Bates age 58 a native of Smithville and a longtime resident of Gainesboro, passed away Saturday morning, June 30, 2018 at Cookeville Regional Medical Center. He was preceded in death by his parents, Homer Lee and Juanita Johnson Bates; son, Matthew Bates; 3 sisters, Wanda Kay Pack, Sheron Ann Whitworth and Sandra Bates; 2 brothers, Ronald Wayne and Donald Lane Bates. He was a Christian and a construction worker. He is survived by his wife, Regina Bates of Gainesboro; 3 children, Jared Bates of Gainesboro, Jordan Hutson of Gainesboro and Jennifer Hawkins of Smithville; 2 grandchildren, Faith and Eli Judkins; 2 sisters, Thelma (Bobby “Stub”) Martin and Janet Hawker both of Smithville; 1 brother, Kenny (Maira) Bates of Smithville; several nieces and nephews also survive. Funeral services will be conducted 2:PM Thursday, July 5, 2018 at DeKalb Funeral Chapel with Bro. Michael Hale officiating and burial will follow in Bonham Cemetery. Visitation with the family will be on Thursday 10AM until the time of the service at 2:PM. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to DeKalb Funeral Chapel to help with funeral expenses. DeKalb Funeral Chapel is in charge of the arrangements.