Johnny R. Bates, of Covington, passed away Thursday, April 27, 2017, at the age of 68. Mr. Bates was an avid outdoorsman who loved hunting, fishing and spending time with his family. He was preceded in death by his parents, Bill (LE) and Elise (Bishop) Bates.

Survivors include his loving wife, Cathy Bates; daughter, Lindsay Bates; son and daughter-in-law, Bill and Tiffany Bates; grandchildren, River Bates, Talyn Millard and Landyn Millard; sister and brother-in-law, Madelyn and Pat Campbell, all of Covington; niece, Kristen Gates of Covington; nephews, Pat Campbell, Jr. of Covington and Gregory Campbell of Hoover, AL.

A Memorial Service will be held Tuesday, May 2, 2017, 4 p.m., at Julia A. Porter United Methodist Church, 3 Cotton St., in Porterdale, with Rev. Tommy Ross officiating. Friends may visit with his family in the church sanctuary, Monday, May 1, from 6 – 8 p.m. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Julia A. Porter United Methodist Church, P.O. Box 700, Porterdale, GA 30070.