Born in Charleston, WV, he later moved to York, PA and finally to Williamsburg, VA. Joe attended Bradley University in IL and Millersville University in PA.
For many years, he attended Williamsburg Community Chapel and later Sunday evening services with Bill Warrick.
Joe served in the U.S. Navy as a corpsman, he lived life passionately and was known for his notorious escapades. He was also the proud owner of The Lamp House in Hellam, PA.
Survivors include his wife of 63 years, Sonja Carver Bates; son, Bret Bates; daughter, Blis Szala; granddaughter, Brittany Szala; and grandson, Drew Szala.
We thank God for the life of Joe LeCompte Bates.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.NelsenWilliamsburg.com for the Bates family.
