Daniel “Randy” Bates Sr., age 75, passed away peacefully on September 3, 2026, at the local hospital surrounded by his loving family.

Randy was a 1970 graduate of Eastbrook High School, he was salesman for many years, retiring from Quality Maintenance Fabrication. He was a member of Salem Baptist Church. A devoted husband, father, and grandfather, Randy will be remembered for his warm heart, his amazing love for Jesus, and his unwavering love for his family. Above all, he loved Jesus and lived his life with faith, kindness, and devotion. As a lifelong Sunday school teacher, Randy faithfully shared God’s Word and encouraged others in their walk with the Lord. His relationship with the Lord was a source of strength and comfort, and his faith touched the lives of all who knew him. Being a grandpa was one of Randy’s greatest joys, and the precious memories he created with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren will be cherished forever. A lifelong football fan, Randy rarely missed a game when he was able—especially when one of his beloved grandkids was playing. Whether cheering from the stands or watching from his favorite chair, his passion for the game brought excitement and laughter. Throughout his life, he also coached, encouraged, and shared his love with many young athletes, leaving a lasting impact on the children whose lives he touched. Randy was preceded in death by his parents, Ralph and Geneva Bates, as well as his beloved brothers and sisters. He is survived by his only remaining brother, Ronnie Bates Sr., and many special nieces and nephews whom he loved dearly. He leaves behind his loving wife of 55 years, Betty Bates; his son and daughter-in-love, Randy Jr. and Tracy Bates; and his daughter and son-in-law, Sherry and Mike Turner. He is also survived by his beloved grandchildren, Levi, Hannah, Cade, Kaleigh, Ema, Mason, and Corbin; and his precious great-grandchildren, John Parker and Kamryn. Randy will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and everyone blessed to have known him. Services to celebrate Randy’s life will take place at Ponders Melrose Chapel on Sunday, September 6, 2026, at 3:00 p.m. with his son, Randy Bates and Reverend Mike Vickery officiating. He will be laid to rest with his family at Antioch Baptist Church Cemetery with Casey Bates, Shane Chastain, Jason Chastine, Gary Land, Daniel Land and Tony Jones honored to serve as pallbearers.

Click here to view celebration of life for Daniel "Randy" Bates Sr.

The family will receive friends after 10:00 a.m. Sunday morning at Ponders Melrose Chapel until the service hour at 3:00 p.m. Forever loved, never forgotten, and always cheering on his grandbabies. Until we meet again in the presence of Jesus.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Ponders Melrose Chapel, 138 Melrose Drive, Dalton, Georgia 30721, (706) 226-4002. "Your Selected Independent Funeral Home"