James Alan Bates

James Alan Bates (Jim), 85, passed away on July 12, 2026. Born on July 5, 1941, Jim made his home in Beach City, Texas, and lived a life marked by steady devotion, deep faith, and a love that drew people close and made them feel cherished.

Raised in Crosby Texas on a dairy farm, Jim learned early the value of honest work and perseverance—lessons that stayed with him throughout his life. Those roots shaped a man who met each season with quiet strength, showing up day after day with the kind of hard-earned steadiness that family could depend on.

Jim carried that same dedication into his service, serving 4 years in the US Army. Afterward, he built a long and reliable career, working at Exxon for 26 years—an enduring testament to his work ethic and commitment.

At the heart of Jim’s life was his family. He was married to the love of his life, Sherril, for 64 years, a partnership defined by loyalty, love, and unwavering devotion. Jim was preceded in death by his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Arthur Evans, Brian and Ruth Bates, His son, Craig Alan Bates, and his brother Robert Bates.

He is survived by his wife, Sherril Bates, son Jimmy Bates (Laura), daughter Sherry Howell (Donny), and grandchildren, Morgan Howell, Brandon Howell (Cheyenne), Jeremy Bates, Carson Howell, and Justin Bates. Along with his great-grandson, Elijah James Howell. He is also survived by his sister, Patsy Redwing, as well as many other loving family members and friends.

Jim found joy in the simple, bright pleasures of time well spent—especially outdoor activities like fishing at the cabin or bay, tennis, and his beloved golf. He had a love for all sports, especially those that involved his children and grandchildren. He found happiness in the moments that brought everyone together and turned ordinary days into lasting memories.

A faithful member of Cedar Bayou Baptist Church, Jim’s life reflected a steady spiritual foundation—one that helped guide his steps and strengthened the bonds he built with those around him.

Jim leaves a legacy of strong family ties and a testimony of a life changed through his walk with Christ. That legacy lives on in the people who carry his name as well as the people he touched throughout his life with lessons well taught and the warmth of his presence—proof that a devoted life, faithfully lived, continues to uplift long after goodbye.

The family would like to give a special note of gratitude to his caregivers, Diana Thompson, Alice Woodard, Leticia Pompa, Janine Faulkner and his nurse Amber Fanklin.

Visitation will be held at Cedar Bayou Baptist Church, 3116 N Alexander Dr, Baytown, TX 77520, US, on July 17, 2026, from 10:00 am to 11:00 am, followed by the Funeral Service at the same location on July 17, 2026, at 11:00 am.