Norma J. Bates

BATES, Norma Jean, age 71 of Brooksville died Sunday, August 23, 2009 at HPH Hospice Care Center, Brooksville.  Born in Smithville, Georgia she came here 26 years ago from Pinellas Park, Florida. She was a homemaker and member of the Church of God of Prophecy, Tampa.  Survivors include her husband, L.V. Bates; sons & daughters-in-law: Michael and Jenny Bates of Holly Springs, North Carolina, James and Angie Bates of Flint, Michigan and Larry Bates of Brooksville; daughter & son-in-law: Sheryl and Tony Stofel of Katy, Texas; eight grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.  Visitation for friends will be 9-11am, Wednesday, August 26, 2009 at Merritt Funeral Home, Brooksville Chapel, where funeral services will begin at 11am with Reverend Eddie Roberts officiating.  Burial will follow at Clearwater Municipal Cemetery.  In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Feed the Children.Arrangements by Merritt Funeral HomeBrooksville Chapel 352-796-6699"Family Owned and Operated"www.merrittfuneral.com""