Barbara Bates

On 06 August 2021 at 10:31 PM, Mrs. Barbara Faye (Walker) Bates departed this world to spend her eternal life with our heavenly Lord and Savior.   Barbara was born in Soddy-Daisy, TN, she attended Soddy-Daisy Elementary and High Schools, and she earned her nursing degree from Erlanger School of Nursing.  Barbara and her husband moved to Birmingham, AL shortly after she received her nursing degree.  After raising four children, Barbara returned to nursing after her youngest graduated from college.  She retired from nursing after working on the renal floor at UAB Hospitals for 15-years.

The church and her family were the primary focus, joy, and love of her life.  Barbara attended Edwards Lake Church of Christ until she was physically unable.  Barbara went above and beyond in raising all of her children with unlimited love and care while instilling exceptional values and morals.  She was a focused and resolute person in any work or task that she undertook.  Everyone that met Barbara stated that “she was the sweetest and most loving woman they had ever met.”  Words cannot begin to describe the warm, loving, caring, and angelic person that Barbara was.

Barbara was preceded in death by her husband Thom, her parents Lester and Laura Walker, her two brothers Wallace Walker and Garnett Walker, and her two sisters, Helen Hixson and Wanda Holloway.  Barbara is survived by her four children, Brian Bates, Kim Culli (Steve), Katrina Bates, and Brad Bates and her three grandchildren, Matthew Medlen, Laura Phillips, and Amanda Phillips.

As per Barbara’s repeated requests, there will not be visitation or a memorial service.  Barbara desired only a small graveside service with her four children and three grandchildren.  The family would like to thank the staff of Adoration Hospice, especially Melissa, Sarah, and Molicca.  In lieu of flowers, please make any monetary donations in Barbara’s name at the Parkinson’s Foundation website.