Heather Bates

Heather was an amazing woman who loved to spend time with the people she loved most. She loved sharing stories and had a way of making everyone laugh. She was incredibly talented at drawing. She believed in living fully and making the most of each day. Her soft, gentle voice had a way of bringing calm and comfort to those around her, and she was always someone you could turn to when times felt hard.

She loved the outdoors, especially seeing beautiful flowers and pretty views, making people smile, and filling the lives around her with warmth and kindness.

She was a devoted and loving mother who always showed up, cheering her children on whenever they needed it. Heather was deeply proud of all of her children and absolutely adored her grandchildren.

She is survived by her children: Alexander Meade, Amanda Smelser, Elizabeth Carr, Sara Brunelle, Colton Bates, Hannah Bates, and Michaela Bates; her grandchildren: Ellie Carr, Jaxon Carr, Easten Harmon, and Marilyn Brunelle; and her brother, Bill Bucholz.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Michael Bates, who passed away on July 11, 2025; her parents, William and Beverly Bucholz; and her sister, Kimberly Barkley.

Heather loved her family dearly, and her presence brought light and comfort to those around her. She will be deeply missed and forever loved.

Psalm 23:4: "Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me".

"Lo, there do I see my father.

Lo, there do I see my mother, and my sisters and my brothers.

Lo, there do I see the line of my people, back to the beginning.

Lo, they do call to me, they bid me take my place among them, in the halls of Valhalla, where the brave may live forever."

There will be a celebration of life April 18th, 2026 at 11AM at 7145 Browntown Road Front Royal Va. 22630