Jimmy Thomas Bates

Jimmy Thomas Bates, cherished husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, February 24, 2026 at the age of 79.

Born in Athens, he was a son of the late Harold Bates and Lena Mae Brooks Sharp. Jimmy retired from the Athens Clarke County Road Department. He was an avid outdoorsman with a passion for hunting and fishing. He also enjoyed racing and riding motorcycles and he made numerous lifelong friends while enjoying all of his hobbies. Jimmy adored his family and will be remembered for providing them with immeasurable love and protection. 

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his son, James Stewart Bates and his brothers, Jasper Bates and Linton Bates. Survivors include his beloved wife, Judy Gail Bates; daughter, Tami Lynn Walden; daughter-in-law, Janna Bates; grandchildren, Hannah Sheridan, Justin Sheridan (Krista), Kaylee Bates Thacker (Joel) and Brady Bates and five great-grandchildren, Dalton, Riley, Parker, Emma Grace and Kohen.

The family will receive friends on Saturday, February 28, 2026 from 2:00 until 4:00 pm with a graveside service to follow at Kidd Cemetery in Colbert. Honorary pallbearers will be Curtis Daniel, Mitchell Meadow, Ralph Garrett, Roger Suddeth, Dickie Hunsinger, Ronnie Howard and Johnny Payne.

Lord and Stephens, Danielsville is in charge of arrangements.