Mr Harvey Leon Bates

Harvey Leon Bates March 17, 1956 - February 10, 2024 Harvey Leon Bates of Newport News, Virginia, departed this life on Saturday, February 10, 2024, in his home surrounded by his loving wife Mary Bates and daughter Keisha McDowell. Harvey was born on March 17, 1956, as the ninth child to James "Jimmie" Bates and Beulah Mae Macklin in Mounds, IL. Harvey accepted Christ later in his life. Harvey began working for Norfolk & Western in 1974-1985 in Decatur, IL, then he moved to work at Norfolk & Southern in Norfolk, VA in 1985-1994 as a Journeyman Carman. Beginning in 1996, Harvey also worked as a local and long-haul commercial driver, which he loved. Harvey loved fishing, he shared his fishing experiences with anyone who would listen to his fishing expeditions or share in the experiences by throwing rods in his favorite fishing holes/spots. He enjoyed listening and singing to the "real" rhythm and blues such as the Temptations, Roberta Flack, Earth & Wind and Fire, etc. Although Harvey loved fishing, listening, and singing R&B, he loved his family more than life itself. He leaves behind his wife of 52 years Mary Alice Bates and four children, Deon Lamont Bates (Shaniki) of Houston, TX; Lucita Raquel Broussard (Angel) of Mableton, GA; Keisha Lenada McDowell of Newport News, VA; and Timothy Jermaine Bates (Damaris) of Lawrenceville, GA; 9 grandchildren, Sheron D. Mason, Isaiah N. Bates, Kaily S. McDermott, Aidan M. Taylor, Alicya D. McDowell, Asiya C. McDowell, Avery M. Broussard, Alivia B. McDowell, and Zuri M. Bates; 5 great-grandchildren, "The Mason Five" Jayce Mason, Jayla Mason, Jaylani Mason, Karsyn Mason, Kailyn Mason; brothers Alfred Bates (Sue) of El Sobrante, California and Charles Bates (Dorothy) of Decatur, IL; sister-in-law Shirley Bates of Decatur, IL; and a host of nieces, nephews, and cousins. Harvey was preceded in death by his parents James and Beulah Bates; siblings, Frank Ivory Bates, Freddie "Joe" Bates, Charlie Alexander Bates, Melvina "Sis" Bates Prather, Erma Jean Bates Smith, Jimmie "Sonny" Lee Bates; and beloved granddaughter, Sanaa McDowell. John 11:25-26 (KJV) Jesus said, I am the resurrection, and the life: he that believeth in me, though he were dead, yet shall he live and whosoever liveth and believeth in me shall never die. Special Thanks The Bates family would like to thank each of you for your sympathy and kindness during this most difficult time. We appreciate the prayers and thoughts that have flowed and continue to flow through the many avenues of communication. May your memories of Harvey continue to be a blessing to you as they are to our family. Psalm 147: 3 (KJV) He healeth the broken in heart, and bindeth up their wounds. Dear Family of Mr. Harvey L. Bates, In this time of shared grief, we extend our deepest condolences to you and your family on the passing of Mr. Harvey L. Bates. The news of his departure has left a void, and our hearts ache with yours during this difficult time. Mr. Bates was truly a remarkable soul, leaving behind a legacy of kindness, resilience, and unwavering spirit. His absence will be deeply felt by all who had the privilege of knowing him. Please know that we are here to offer support in any way we can. Whether it's a listening ear or assistance with specific needs, please do not hesitate to reach out. Your well-being is our top priority. May the cherished memories of Mr. Bates bring you comfort, and may his enduring spirit continue to live on in the hearts of those he touched. With heartfelt sympathy, Mark E. Fisher, CFSP Owner M.E. Fisher Funeral Home