Mr. GW Bates, age 75, of Dalton, Georgia, departed this life Thursday, January 16, 2025, at his home with his loving wife by his side. He was born May 20, 1949 in Dalton Georgia, a son of the late James Ralph and Geneva Henry Bates. He was also preceded in death by his He was also preceded in death by his sisters, Syble Christine Bates Land, Geneva "Sis" Bates, Margaret Kellams, Betty Chastain and Dorothy Harris, brothers, James, Jimmie Steven, Junior, Kenneth, Charles and Ricky Bates, step daughter, Angels Henderson Smith.

He is survived by his wife of 40 years, Melba Jeanette Bates of the residence; stepson, Samuel Keeler of Dalton, GA; brothers and sisters-in-law, Ronnie Bates of Chatsworth, GA,  Randy and Betty Bates of Dalton, GA; four grandchildren, four grandchildren, nieces and nephews.

Service to celebrate the life of Mr. G W Bates will be held Wednesday January 22, 2025 at 4:00 p.m. from the Ponders Melrose Chapel with Denny Smith officiating. The family will receive friends at the funeral home from 2:00 p.m. until 4:00 p.m. on Wednesday.

Arrangements are entrusted to Ponders Melrose Chapel, 138 Melrose Drive, Dalton, GA, 30721. For more information, please visit www.selectedindependentfuneralhomes.org.