Geraldine Bates

BATES, Geraldine (nee Wingate)

Born May 16, 1935, to Robert and Maddie Wingate (nee Branham). Beloved wife of almost 73 years to Stanton Bates. Loving mother of Terri (Randy) Herrin, Randy (Barb), Janet (Mark) Smith. Dear grandmother of Corey (Erica) Clayton, Sara Hartzel, Lyndsey (Nicholas) Schmidt, Eric Lepera, Shannon Bubb, and Tyler Bubb. Dear great grandmother of Adriana Hartzel, Donovan Hartzel, Freda Clayton, Mavis Clayton, Charlee Schmidt, Jo Schmidt and Emmy Byrd. Cherished sister of Irene Amburgy and the late Mort Wingate, Robert Wingate, Ruby McMillan, Anna Jean Robinson, and Leda Stevens.

Geraldine was always known as Jerri to family and friends. She grew up on a farm in Montgomery County KY, where she met her future husband, Stanton Bates, who were married on October 27, 1952. They settled in Murfreesboro TN, while Stan was in the USAF. After discharge, they moved to Middletown, OH. Later, they moved to Liberty Township and helped establish Bethany Baptist Church. For a few years, Stan's job took them to Wilmington NC, but they eventually returned to Liberty Township. They enjoyed golf trips with friends and AF reunions that took them around the country. The highlight of their travels was a trip out west with Stan's sister, Vicki, and her husband, Gary. She loved her flower gardens and the large vegetable garden that she and Stan grew every year just so they could provide fresh vegetables to family and neighbors. She loved outdoor activities and playing cards with friends. But more than anything she loved spending time with her kids, grandkids and great grandkids. She was truly that rare individual who never had a mean word to say and will be missed by all who knew and loved her.

Visitation will be held at Bethany Baptist Church, 6049 Yankee Rd., Liberty Twp., OH 45044, on Friday, May 1, 2026, from 10:30 AM until time of Funeral Service at 12 Noon. Pastor Wayne Yeager officiating. Burial will follow at Rose Hill Cemetery in Mason, OH.

Full obituary will be updated soon.