Dewain Bates

Dewain Bates, beloved Family Man, and important member of the Jessieville community, passed away on September 2, 2023, at National Park Medical Center in Hot Springs, Arkansas.

Dewain was known for his outgoing personality and never met a stranger. He had a warm and welcoming demeanor that made everyone feel at ease in his presence. Dewain lived a fulfilling life and had many hobbies and interests. He thoroughly enjoyed fishing and hunting, finding solace in nature. His hunting dogs were dear to him, with his favorite companion named "Smidge."
He loved running his dogs, and his greatest pleasure of all was attending his grandkids athletic events.

He was dearly loved by his family and friends who will forever cherish the memories they shared with him. Dewain is survived by his children Sheryl (Todd) Myers, Thomas (Stephanie) Bates, April Gateley (Royce). He is also survived by four of his brothers; Ronald Bates, Donald Bates, Joe Allen Fisher, and Tracy (Connie) Fisher. He cherished grandchildren Matt Fryar, Hanna Hammock, Justin Bates, Kyler (Jordan) Davidson, Keaton Davidson, Johnathan Gateley, Daniel Gateley. He was also blessed with two great-grandchildren, Blakely Davidson, Reece Davidson. His beloved wife Mary Jane Bates, his parents, Harmon Bates and Bernadine Fisher await him in heaven along with his two sister Velma Bates, and Zelda Fisher, as well as his step father Joe Fisher. 

Pallbearers will be Justin Bates, Kyler Davidson, Keaton Davidson, Daniel Gateley, Chad Castleberry, and Joseph Crumpton.

Honorary pallbearer will be his best friend Elmer Crumpton who was more like a brother to him.

Officiating will be Roger Harper and Roger Reid.

A visitation will be held at  Smith Family Funeral Home, at 2205 Airport Road in Hot Springs on Thursday, September 7th from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM. The celebration of life service will be held at Walnut Grove Church situated at 7027 AR-298 in Jessieville, AR on September 8th at 2:00 PM.

After the service at the church, a community potluck will be held in Mr. Bates honor.