Judith A. Bates

A longtime member of the 4H and Rainbow Girls, Judy carried those early commitments with her throughout life—showing steady devotion to community, a willingness to serve, and a quiet strength that others could count on. She attended Ball State University and Lockyear Business College, bringing a practical intelligence and determined work ethic to each season of her life.

Judy was a member of the Eastern Star and served as an administrator of several area nursing homes, a role that reflected her sense of responsibility and her respect for the dignity of others. Outside of work, she found joy in her bowling league at Franklin Lanes, in playing clabber, and in the music and movement that suited her so well—she was a very talented dancer and enjoyed going to the Barn in Haubstadt, In. Above all, she was a devoted grandma who adored her grandchildren, and her love for family remained the heart of her life. She was a lifelong member of the Baptist faith.

Judy is survived by her sister, Janet Resler (Darrell); son, Gary Moyer (Debbie); daughter, Angela Higgins (Buddy); grandchildren: Aaron Moyer (Danielle), Amanda Gross, Anna Tramill, Kara Alexander, Randy McGrew, Dustin McGrew (Angie), Derek McGrew (Casie), Jimmy Boyd (Tiffany), Elizabeth Voegel (Casey); bonus grandchildren, Jessica Higgins, Jennifer Johnson, Jacob Higgins, Micheala Higgins; 24 great grandchildren; and nieces and nephew,: Heather Resler, Clinton Resler, LouAnna Racster and Cindy Hedrick.

Judy was preceded in death by her parents; brother, Robert Harbison; sister, Jacqualyn Harbison; husband, Eldon Bates; daughters, Chrissy Bates and Lori Koss; and sister-in-law, Betty and Tinsley Webb.

A funeral service will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Thursday, October 29, 2026 at Alexander West Chapel, officiated by Pastor Darrell Resler, with burial to follow at Birdseye Cemetery in Birdseye, IN. Friends may visit from 3:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. on Wednesday, October, 28, 2026 and from 9:00 a.m. until service time on Thursday at the the funeral home.

Memorial contributions may be made the Vanderburgh County Humane Society.

Condolences may be made online at www.AlexanderWestChapel.com.