Betty Joan Bates

Betty Joan Bates, lovingly known as Joan, passed away on Thursday, December 18, 2025. She was born on November 9, 1940, in Meridian, Texas, to William and Gladys Rice and spent her childhood surrounded by deep family roots and enduring faith.

Joan grew up in Meridian alongside her three beloved sisters, Helen Hardin, Wanda Hardin, and Myra Hennigan. She graduated from Meridian High School in May of 1959 and later attended Durham Business College, beginning a life marked by diligence, devotion, and service to others.

On April 15, 1960, Joan married Tommy Roy Bates in Walnut Springs, Texas. Together they welcomed three children—Tamera, Timothy, and Shelley Bates. Though Joan and Tommy later divorced, they remained friends for the remainder of her life, a testament to her grace, loyalty, and character.

Joan devoted much of her adult life to raising children, pouring love into her home and ensuring her family never went a night without a home-cooked meal. Later, she ran the bakery at a local grocery store, a role that suited her thoughtful nature and nurturing spirit. She especially loved when her grandchildren would stop by to see her, moments she treasured deeply.

A loyal woman and a woman of God, Joan was one of the strongest-willed people you could ever meet. She loved to read, cherished her faith, and carried a quiet wisdom that could only come from walking closely with the Lord. She was slow to speak and slow to anger, always intentional with her words, never unkind, always thoughtful, and often delivered with a sharp but gentle wit. You never quite knew what she might say, but you always knew it would be something good.

Joan lived in Lorena, Texas, where her home was a place of peace, comfort, and welcome. Her favorite color was blue, and her butterscotch candies were always ready in a dish for anyone who stopped by. Her hugs were warm and unforgettable; she made sure you left feeling loved, often with an extra squeeze just to be safe.

She was incredibly close with her sisters, and as their families grew, cousin gatherings became a cherished tradition. Nearly every weekend was spent together, creating memories that shaped generations and remain deeply treasured.

Joan absolutely adored her grandchildren and was even more proud of her great-grandchildren. She was endlessly thankful for the life God had blessed her with and showed that gratitude through her care for others, her famous Thanksgiving dressing, and her constant desire to make sure everyone was taken care of. She was a wonderful listener and embodied a peaceful presence that made people feel seen, heard, and loved.

Joan is preceded in death by her parents, William and Gladys Rice; her sister, Helen Hardin; and her son, Timothy Bates.

Joan is survived by her daughters, Tamera Brooker, and Shelley Ashley and husband Timothy Ashley; sisters, Myra Hennigan and Wanda Hardin; grandchildren, Lindsey Wachsmann and husband Scott Wachsmann, Jarred Ashley and wife Halley Ashley, and Gage Ashley; great-grandchildren, Luke and Kinsley Wachsmann, Parker Ashley, and Raelynn Ashley; along with several nieces, nephews, and extended family members who loved her dearly.

Her legacy of faith, family, warmth, and unwavering love will live on in all who were blessed to know her.

“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day—and not only to me, but also to all who have longed for his appearance.”   2 Timothy 4:7-8 NIV