David Lee Bates

David Lee Bates was born on March 4, 1952 to Bennie “Preacher” Bates and Joyce Bates.  He attended Blackshear Elementary, Ryan Junior High and San Jacinto High School where he focused on welding.  He later attending the academy for welding.

David was baptized at an early age and maintained his faith throughout his life.  He was a true country boy at heart and  had hobbies that included anything concerning horses, fishing, hunting, working on his truck and trailers, playing games with his grandchildren and watching football.  Being outdoors with his dogs and doing home chores was enjoyable because he always believed in maintaining his home, yard, fruit trees and vegetable garden.  Not to mention, he was a die hard Dallas Cowboys fan.

David prided himself on being a member of the Southwestern Trailride Association for over 40 years.  In his early days, he enjoyed roping and would look for the best quarter horses because he was fond of their temperament, build, intelligence and gentleness.  Later in life, he became a scout for his organization because it was important that      people and the animals remained safe during the trail rides and events.

For over 40 years, David worked in the oil and gas industry as a master welder.  He       retired from Gulfex in Houston, Texas.  His passion for welding became a hobby, as well.  He built a barbecue pit with his brothers, Greg and Michael, as well as items for his    animals.

On February 7, 2024, David Lee Bates journeyed over the horizon of life into the realm of peaceful rest.  Those that went before him on that dusty trail are his father, grandmother (Rosie Lee Johnson), brother (Victor Bates), and sister (Sarah “Pat” Bates).

Left to honor his love, life and laughter are his mother, Joyce Bates; daughter, Ronzie Lewis (Rashad); grandchildren, Zoe Lewis, Riley Lewis and Brandon Lewis, II; sister,    Deborah Bates Bob (Horace); brothers, Bennie Bates (Debra), Gregory Bates (Shirley) and Michael Bates (Pat); aunt, Vera Dawkins and Zenobia Smith; uncles, Rinza T.       Johnson, William Smith, John Dawkins; nephews, Marcus J. Bates, Darrah Williams, Shawn Debose (Janette), Christopher Bates, Jordan Bates, Kendall Bates and Demarcus Morris; nieces, Evonne Bates, Tia Bates, Tina Scott (Tory), Chevonne Bates-Bradley (Terance), Nicole Anderson (Michael); former wife, but forever life-partner, Carol Bates; a host of other relatives, friends, and the Southwestern Trailride Association family.

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