Mary Marcella "Marcie" Bates
Mary Marcella "Marcie" Bates, peacefully departed this life on Monday, July 8, 2024.
She was cherished by her family, friends, and community and leaves behind a legacy of dedication, love, and service that will forever be cherished.
Mrs. Bates devoted over 33 years of her life to McKee Foods where she exemplified leadership and excellence in various managerial roles. Her passion for nurturing growth extended beyond the corporate world, as she served as the president of the Signal Mountain Garden Club, bringing beauty and inspiration to her surroundings.
Her commitment to justice and fairness was evident in her role on the appeals board for the City of Collegedale, where she diligently worked to uphold the values of her community.
Among her many passions, gardening held a special place in her heart, reflecting her nurturing and creative spirit. She found immense joy in cultivating life and beauty, mirroring her own caring nature towards her family and friends.
Mrs. Bates also served as a trustee for many years at Plowman’s Cemetery, ensuring the respectful and dignified resting places for the departed in her community.
Above all, Marcie was a devoted followed of Christ, dedicating her life to her faith and her family. Her love for Jesus was evident in the kindness and compassion she showed for everyone she encountered. Her unwavering love for her family and friends was a beacon of warmth and comfort to those around her.
She was particularly delighted by her great-granddaughter, Marcie, who was named after her and their bond was a source of immense joy and pride.
In honoring Marcie’s memory, let us remember her as a loving, kind-hearted soul who touched the lives of many with her generosity, grace, and unwavering faith. Her legacy of love and devotion, especially to her beloved great-granddaughter and her service to her community, will continue to inspire and uplift us all.
Mrs. Bates was preceded in death by her parents, Elbert and Nellie Bates; daughter, Cynthia Ann Howard; and son, Jonie Wrinkle; and her longtime companion, Leroy Hobbs.
She is survived by her daughters, Cathie (Randy) Durham, Ooltewah and Debra (Willie) Lively, Apison; granddaughter, Chelsie Wilson, Knoxville; and great-granddaughter, Marcie Wilson, Knoxville.
Funeral services will be held Thursday, July 11, at 11 aa.m. in the funeral home chapel with Rev. Debbie Stokes officiating. Burial will follow at Plowman Cemetery.
You may share condolences with the family at www.heritagechattanooga.com
Memorial contributions may be made to the Plowman Cemetery, P.O. Box 55, Apison, Tn. 37302.
The family will receive friends on Wednesday, July 10, from 4-8 p.m. at Heritage Funeral Home, 7454 E. Brainerd Road.