Barbara Jean Bates

Click here to view memorial service

We are gathered here today to honor cur beloved Barbara Jean Bates - nickname "Bob", a woman of greatness! - was born in Tallahassee, Florida on July 1940, to Ralph Leach and Hannah Leach. She was the fifth of eight children, including siblings Viola. Mattie Mae, Beatrice. Mitchell, Joseph, Yvonne, and Jonell.

Barbara Jean Bates. a woman of unwavering faith, exceptional culinary talent. and boundless love family and community peacefully passed away on Monday March 18, 2024, leaving behind cherished and a legacy of kindness. She was 83 years old.

Bom and raised in Tallahassee, Florida_ Barbara began her journey through life with a spirit of warmth and generosity. From her earliest days in elementary school to her high years, she imbued every moment with a vibrant energy and a genuine love for those around her, after relocating to Jacksonville Florida. Barbara worked as an elementary school cook, "here her nurturing spirit and culinary prowess touched the lives of countless children. It was in Jacksonville where she encountered the love of her life. Paul. and embarked on a journey that led than to Buffalo, New York, in 1967.

After relocating to Jacksonville. Florida, Barbara worked as an elementary school cook, her nurturing spirit and culinary prowess touched the lives of countless children„ It was in Jacksonville where she encountered the love of her life, Paul, and together they embarked on a journey that led them to Buffalo, New York. in 1967.

In Buffalo, Barbara's devotion to faith Shone brightly as she became an integral part Of Memorial Christian Ministries_ Her service on the mother exemplified her commitment to her community and her unwavering Ime the Lord. AS her health began to decline, she relocated Fairfax. Virginia. to reside with her daughter, Barbette. Despite her physical challenges. she persisted in her warship and found a spiritual home at Great Salvation Christian Fellowship, where Pastor Oliver Clark Jr, affectionately' dubbed her " Mother Barbara."

Barbara' professional journey was marked by dedication and compassion she started her career as a cook at (Grants department store before transitioning to a role as a Clinical Nursing Assistant at Buffalo Columbus Hospital_ where she served for 17 years, Her passion for caring for others led her to Mercy Hospital, where she spent 13 years as an EKG Technician before retiring.

Barbara's compassionate heart led become a foster parent. She provided a loving. safe and nurturing environment to the children entrusted in her care,

Barbara was renowned for her culinary talents. Her kitchen was a place of joy, where delighted in preparing delicious meals for her loved ones and her Church community. Her cakes and chicken dinners are beloved staples, and her holiday spreads included fried fish, baked ham- grilled salmon, barbecue ribs, smoked collard greens, macaroni and cheese, potato salad and macaroni salad. For the holidays she loved baking cookies, peach cobbler, brownies, pound cakes and sweet potato pies. She was known for her tradition of gifting these baked goods which were eagerly anticipated by all.

In addition to her culinary skills, Barbara found joy in games, dancing. and gatherings with family and friends, she played a variety of games solitaire, spades, rummy, bingo, Pokeno_ backgammon, and jungle Jin. Whether it was playing cards with her grandchildren_ baking cookies with her godson's or hanging out with her goddaughter getting her hair braided, she infused every Moment with love and laughter.

Barbara leaves behind a legacy of love and kindness. and joy that will be cherished by all who knew her. While she may have departed this earthly realm her spirit will live on in the hearts of those she touched forever.

Rest in peace, "Bob". Your light will continue to shine brightly in our hearts.

Barbara was predeceased by her husband, Paul Henry Bates and son, Teddy Garrett Goldson

Barbara is survived by her daughter. Barbette Bailey (Fred)

Grandchildren ' Domikia Bales, Kinyata Bates. Davon Bates. Fred Bailey II, Tasha bolden (Regis), Zachary Bailey, Marcus Bailey; Great Grandchildren: Ja’Nia (Jeremiah), Brailyn, Rex, Ja’tonio. Reya, Scottie, Kulani. & Kamdyn; Great Grandchildren: Royale, Jeramiah Jr, Kennedy; Godsons: Leon McCleary Jr and Darren McCleary; Goddaughter: Yolanda Martin; Beloved friend of many years Marion McCleary (Leon)

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Barbara Jean Bates, please visit our floral store.