Ronald Bates Sr. passed away on September 13, 2024, in Jacksonville, Florida, after a long battle with COPD at the age of 78. Born on May 16, 1946, in Portland, OR. Ron had a deep love for the Lord and led a life filled with devotion to his family, a passion for his craft, and dedicated service to his country.

In 1963 Ron met the love his life Linda Rodgers where they later wed on October 15, 1965 shortly before enlisting in the military. Ron served from 1965 to 1967 in the US Army as a Green Beret Paratrooper, 1st Special Forces where he received a National Defense Service Medal, Parachutist Badge, and commendations as a Sharpshooter and Marksman., a period during which he demonstrated exemplary courage and dedication. His military service left a lasting impact, instilling in him values that he carried into his personal and professional life.

After his time in the military, Ron transformed his skills into a thriving entrepreneurial journey by founding and running the largest cabinet shop in Portland, OR. His exceptional work was regularly featured in Portland’s Street of Dreams, where he consistently received awards for top designer and craftsmanship. His business ventures later took him to Cincinnati, OH, where he established Permacurves, with franchises across the country.

Throughout the family’s cross country moves Ron was always diligent in seeking out a church for his family that was spirit filled and where they could all feel God’s presence.

While in Oregon Ron and his wife served as Senior High Youth Pastors for the Mount Scott Church of the Nazarene and spent many years singing in the choir. After moving to Cincinnati, OH he was a faithful member of the Princeton Pike Church of God where he enjoyed the anointed choir under the leadership of Pastor Jimmy Phillips and the teachings and humor of Pastor Sam Luke. In Ron’s eyes there was no other Music Minister or Pastor that was ever comparable. Ron’s last moments were spent watching and old video of Pastor Jimmy ushering in the presence of the Lord while directing his favorite choir, allowing Ron to worship the Lord with some of his favorite songs. Just a few short hours later he was ushered in to the actual presence of his Lord and Savior.

Ron Sr. was a fun-loving jokester with a quick wit, who had a knack for making memories during family vacations and throughout life with his kids and grandchildren. A gifted storyteller, he especially loved sharing the tale of how he and Linda fell in love. He had a compassionate spirit, always ready to lend a helping hand to those in need.

He leaves behind his beloved wife of 59 years, Linda Bates; his cherished grandchildren, Ronald Bates III, Robert (Sam) Bull, Brooke (Hayden) Wright, Brandi Bull, Blake Bates and Taylor Bates; son-in-law, Ray Bull; two great-grandchildren, Aniston Bull and Stetson Bull, with another baby Bull on the way; sister, Evelyn Froke; sisters-in-laws Diane Bankhead and Chierrie Veurink; brothers-in-laws Charlie (Cheryl) Price, Kenny (Kelly) Price, and Jim (Terry) Price, along with many nieces and nephews.

Ron Sr. was preceded in death by his parents, Lavinia and William Bates; his son, Ronald Bates Jr. and daughter, Traci Bull; siblings Lavina Page, Evadale Bates, Willie Bates, Ray Bates, and Don Bates; and Father & Mother-in-law Charles Sr. and Shirley Price, and brother-in-law Jerry Rodgers.

A heartfelt Celebration of Life will be held on September 20, 2024, with his immediate family, honoring a man whose legacy of love, laughter, and craftsmanship will always be cherished.

I’m Free

Don’t grieve for me, for now I’m free.

I’m following the path God laid for me.

I took His hand when I heard him call,

I turned my back and left it all.

I could not stay another day,

To laugh, to love to work or play,

Tasks left undone must stay that way.

I found that place at the close of day.

If my parting has left a void,

Then fill it with remembered joy.

A friendship shared, a laugh, a kiss,

Ah yes, these things I too will miss.

Be not burdened with time of sorrow,

I wish you the sunshine of tomorrow.

My life’s been full, I’ve savored much,

Good friends, Good times a loved one’s touch.

Perhaps my time seemed all to brief,

Don’t lengthen it now with undue grief.

Lift up your heart and smile with me.

God wanted me now…

He set me free.