Julia Darlene Smith

I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith: Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing.

2 Timothy 4:7-8 9 (KJV)

Julia Darlene Bates, the sixth of twelve children, was born to JB and Lillie Ruth Bates on August 28, 1949. Julia attended Mary A. Brown public school in Smithville, Texas. She accepted Christ at an early age and joined Mt. Pilgrim Baptist Church. After high school she moved to Austin, Texas and worked at Stage Department Store.

In 1970, Julia moved to Houston, Texas and lived with her sister Helen and her husband Donnie while working at St Joseph Hospital with medical supplies. In 1970, Bobby Smith relocated to Houston from San Antonio, Texas where he gained employment with Magnolia Welding Supply. He met Julia Bates at a Davis Family Reunion, this began an instant courtship. Bobby got his Pilot License; it was his opportunity to show her his love for flying. Bobby and Julia would wed on August 2, 1974. To this union 2 children were born: Andrea and Andre. Julia stayed home to nurture her young family. She eventually went to The Archie W. Dunham College of Business. From there she would have a twenty-five-year career in security administration at NASA where she earned the prestigious Snoopy award. Bobby and Julia favorite past time was traveling.

Julia was a member of New Hope Missionary Baptist Church where she served in the pastor’s aide ministry and often helped in areas of the church. She was a great cook and often bragged about how good her food was.

She was preceded in death by: Husband: Bobby Smith, Parents: JB and Lillie Ruth Bates, Brothers: Jerry, Thurman and Calvin Bates; Brother-n-laws: Donnie Davis, Theodore Adams, Sister-n-laws: Susie Bates, Susan Bates and Vergie Bates. She is also preceded in death by a host of relatives, in-laws and friends.

She leaves to cherish her memories: Daughter: Andrea Smith, Son: Andre Smith, Brothers: Jonah, Kenny and Anthony Bates; Sisters; Helen Davis, Kathy Jackson, Linda (Ray) Mackingtee, Theresa Thomas, and Willie Parks. Brother-n-laws: Endray (Pamela) Smith, Elijah (Phyllis) Smith; Sister-n-law: Pathelynn (Randall) Christian. She is also survived by a host of other relatives, nephews, nieces, cousins, in-laws and friends.