Bishop John L. Bates

Bishop John L. Bates, 49, of McComb transitioned from this earthly life September 2, 2022, at University Medical Center in Jackson. Visitation will be Friday, September 16th , from 5:00pm-7:00pm at Rose Hill Freewill Baptist Church and will continue Saturday, September 17, 11:00am-12:00 noon, at McComb High School Auditorium. Services will follow at Noon with Rev. Trebor Smith, Officiating. Burial will be in Pike Memorial Gardens. Bishop John L. Bates was born August 9, 1973, in McComb, MS to Rosie Maxwell and the Late John L. Bates, Jr. (Hop). Bishop Bates is a graduate of McComb High School, New Zion Bible Theology College in Magnolia, MS, and the University of Toyota and Chrysler Salesman. He also completed the South Pike School District’s Substitute Training Course where he became a certified substitute teacher. Bishop Bates was a true man of God and an outstanding leader. He has impacted so many lives not just family, but in the community as well. He was a man who always carried a smile and always expressed his genuine love for his family and friends. As an ordained Bishop of Mississippi Free Will Baptist, he was the Bishop of the Western Division of Freewill Baptist, executive member of the District Annual and General Conference and served on the Ministry Alliance of the Western Division of Freewill Baptist. Bishop Bates served on the Ecclesiastical Council at District, Annual, and General Conferences. August 2001, Bishop Bates was appointed to Summer’s Chapel FWB Church by Bishop Robert Thompson and in 2002, he became the pastor of Summer’s Chapel FWB Church in Liberty, MS and served as Associate Pastor of Rose Hill FW Baptist Church. Bishop Bates Served on numerous boards at Rose Hill while being associate pastor. Bishop Bates was Pastor of Rose Hill Freewill Baptist Church from May 2012 until his health failed him in August 2022.In 2016, he was later elected 2nd vice general Bishop of Mid-America General Conference in Chicago, Illinois. Bishop Bates organized a young men's organization back in the early 1900’s called “Captivating Young Men” and later branched out to the young women. There were many events that he hosted such as School Competitions, fashion Shows, Pike County People’s Choice Awards, Candlelight Gala, Captivating Young men Showcase, Sweetheart Gala, Easter basket, and Christmas toy give away, and other outstanding events that had been held in the community. He served as Minister Advisor on the Executive board of the NAACP. He was currently employed with Perry Brothers Ford in Tylertown, MS, and he was elected as McComb City Selectman for Ward 4 on July 15, 2022 and served until his health failed him. He was also in partnership with the McComb School District, a part of the “We want more movement.” He was preceded in death by his father John L. Bates Jr. (Hop), grandparents Lexie Smith, William Perkins, John L. Bates, Sr., Mary Ashley Bates, Mador Lewis, Aaron Bates, Ellen Ashley, and Billy Ashley; two brothers: Paul Johnson and Tracy McDaniel. He leaves to cherish his memories a loving Wife of 6 years Cadessa Bates of McComb, MS; Mother and Father Rosie (Harry) Maxwell; stepmother Dorothy Bates all of McComb, MS. Five siblings: Sandra Faust of Houston, TX, Maxine (Terry) Lee of Summit, MS, Comesha Tucker, Bobby (Roneek) Porter, Robby Porter, Shameka Cameron, and Lakesha Maxwell all of McComb, MS. Five sons Danny(Robin)Smith of McComb, MS, Darius Smith, ShaKobe Seaberry of Summit, MS, Daniel Smith of New Orleans, LA, Jalen Seaberry of Chester Peak ,VA; Godparents Joan(Tommie) Strowder of Liberty, MS, one God son Savion Miller of Hattiesburg, MS many devoted family members; eight grandchildren, a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and other relatives and very close friends that he called family and a numerous play sisters. His motto was “All things work together for the good of them that the Lord which are called to his purpose.” Romans 8:28 We will continue to follow the CDC guidelines, Mask and Social Distancing will be required upon entering the facility. Services entrusted to Peoples Undertaking Co. Condolences can be shared at www.peoplesundertakingcompanyinc.com

Bishop John L. Bates

August 9, 1973 - September 2, 2022