James Bates Jr. Obituary
With solemn hearts, we announce the passing of James Bates Jr. of Henderson, Kentucky, whose presence will be deeply missed, having departed on November 27, 2025 at the age of 90. Leave a sympathy message to the family on the memorial page of James Bates Jr. to pay them a last tribute.
He was predeceased by: his parents, James J. Bates Sr. and Frances White Bates; his wife Betty Bates; and his sister Frances Adair. He is survived by: his children, Merritt Bates and James J. Bates, III (Regina) of Crestwood, KY; his grandchildren, Lauren Thomas of Louisville, KY, Jillian Gainous (Jared) of Russellville, KY, Reid Thomas (Sarah) of Henderson, KY, Jordan Bates of Louisville, KY and Madison Bates of Crestwood, KY; and his great grandchildren, Lilah Jo, Palmer Gainous, Max and Margot Thomas.
Visitation will be held on Friday, January 9th 2026 from 3:00 PM to 7:00 PM and on Saturday, January 10th 2026 from 9:00 AM to 10:00 AM. A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, January 10th 2026 at 10:00 AM at the Presbyterian Church of Henderson (100 S Main St, Henderson, KY 42420).
In lieu of flowers, expressions of sympathy may take the form of contributions to The Presbyterian Church of Henderson, 100 South Main Street, Henderson, KY 42420; St Anthony's Hospice, 2410 South Green Street, Henderson, KY 42420; Henderson County Public Library, 101 South Main Street, Henderson, KY 42420; Henderson Area Arts Alliance, PO Box 234, Henderson, KY 42419; or Friends of Audubon, PO Box 576, Henderson, KY 42419.
