Terry Bates

Terry Lee Bates, 74, of Houston, Texas, passed away on February 2nd, 2024. He was born on April 18th, 1949 in Houston. He went to Dulles High School and graduated from Westbury High School, Class of 1969. He proudly served his country in the United States Navy as a Petty Officer 3rd Class from 1971 to 1973, serving on the USS Midway as a draftsman.

Terry was a man of many talents and hobbies. He spent years rebuilding his 1969 Cutlass 442. He played softball in leagues all over the city, most recently with the Harris County Senior Softball League. He loved the Astros, the Rockets, and while attending the University of Houston became a lifelong supporter of the Houston Cougars basketball and football teams. He volunteered with a local nonprofit to feed stray cats and loved all animals, especially his cats and his granddog Alfie. He enjoyed travel and his favorite trips were to the Hill Country with his wife. He was always listening to music -- the Eagles, Linda Ronstadt, Glen Campbell, The Carpenters, Gordon Lightfoot, Dan Fogelberg, and John Denver. His favorite TV shows included Nash Bridges, NCIS, and the History Channel. He loved many movies whether they were old movies, war movies, or comedies, and always had a movie quote ready for any occasion.

His parents, Mary Louise Johnston and Kenneth Reagan Johnston, predeceased Terry. Those left to cherish his memory are his loving wife of 41 years, Mary Bates, his son; Shawn Reagan and his wife Kim Gandy, and his sisters; Debbie Johnston, Marilyn Moore and her husband David. He treasured his friendships whether near and far, many of whom he spoke to regularly and were lifelong friends.

The family would like to give special thanks to Harbor Hospice, Dr. Durgam and the team at Encompass Rehabilitation, and Methodist Sugar Land for their care and support of Terry and the entire family.

In lieu of flowers, please consider adopting a cat or donating to your local SPCA in Terry’s memory.

A memorial service will be held at 2:00 p.m. Saturday, February 24th, 2024 at The Settegast-Kopf Co. @ Sugar Creek, 15015 SW FWY, Sugar Land, TX 77478. A reception will follow in the funeral home Event Room.