of Mabelvale, AR

February 2, 1941 - March 30, 2024

Doris Elaine Bates, was called home to her heavenly father on Saturday, March 30, 2024 and traded in her earthly body for an eternity in heaven. Doris was born in Shelbina, Missouri on February 2, 1941 with a feisty spirit and loving heart.

Doris' infectious laugh, love of her family and competitive spirit are sure to be remembered. She was well known for hardly ever missing a sporting event when her kids, grandkids or great-grandkids were playing. She loved dancing in the kitchen to gospel music when Papaw was on the road in the early years and family game nights after holiday meals with her family - especially playing Mexican Train dominoes. And Doris truly cherished her Joy Sunday School class at Trinity Baptist Church for both her friendships and fellowship.

In her early years Doris attended Garner High School in Garner, Iowa and then went on to graduate from Benson High School in Omaha, Nebraska. In 1964, she met the love of her life when Papaw was the assistant manager of an Enlisted Man's Club in California - and Mamaw was set up with his bartender. Needless to say, she never made that date with the bartender and Papaw told her that very first day he was going to marry her.

She was preceded in death by her mother, Beaulah Pflum Richards and father, Willard Richards; late husband, Larry Johnson and grandson, Tanner Bates.

She is survived by a family who treasured her; her beloved husband of 59 ½ years, Robert Bates, Sr.; her brother, Bill Richards (Cindy) and sister, Patricia Powers; children, Colleen Childress (Randy), Robert Bates Jr. and Keith Bates (Cheryl); grandchildren, Justin Bates (Brooke), Meredith Bull (Justin), Blake Childress and Malachi Eldridge (Caitlyn Hicks). Her great-grandchildren, Jaxson Bull, Crew Bates, Nash Bull, Brooks Bull and Belladonna Eldridge and so many more colleagues, friends and relatives who loved her deeply.

Pallbearers for the services are Taylor Appling, Justin Bates, Justin Bull, Blake Childress, Randy Childress and Malachi Eldridge. Honorary pallbearer is Tanner Bates.

The celebration of Doris' life will be held at 1:30pm on April 10, 2024 at Roller Alcoa Funeral Home in Benton, Arkansas. Visitation will be held the evening prior from 6-8pm on April 9, 2024 at Roller Alcoa Funeral Home in Benton, Arkansas. All attendees are asked to wear purple to the services as this was her favorite color.

Memorial contributions can be made to the Humane Society of Saline County or the The EMpact One Foundation's Tanner Bates Memorial Fund.

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