March 10, 1948 – April 6, 2025
Tyler, Texas

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Katherine (Kay) Bates, 77, of Tyler, Texas, who passed away on April 6, 2025 surrounded by her loving family. Kay was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and friend who touched the hearts of all who knew her.

For 52 years, Kay worked as a devoted hairdresser, building lasting relationships with her clients and leaving a mark on the community. She was a vivacious, hard-working, and independent woman who always wore a smile. Whether offering a listening ear or wise advice, she was a constant source of support and guidance. A devoted Catholic, she lived her life with compassion and generosity, always ready to help others in need.

Kay was known for her love of makeup, jewelry, and especially her beloved lipstick. She took pride in always being dressed to the nines, with a full face of makeup, radiating confidence every day. Her outgoing personality and fierce love for her family were evident in everything she did. Kay loved deeply, fiercely, and without hesitation. Her family, especially her four children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren, were the center of her world, and she always put them first.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Walter and Gladys Colman; her beloved husband, Freddy Lee Bates; and her siblings, Charles Colman and Jeanne Rozelle.

Kay is survived by her sisters, Martha McKamie (Dudley) and Anne Sager (Steve); her sons, Rick Hunter and Ben Bates (Tomomi); her daughters, Lori Rumbelow and Katie Lasseter (Jason); her grandchildren, Ryan Rumbelow (Laura), Nick Rumbelow (Shai), Trevor Rumbelow, Devin Hunter, Landry Lasseter, and Colt Bates; her granddaughters, Lainie Lasseter, Hannah Hunter, Kristina Bates, and Leah Bates; and her great-grandchildren, Jett Rumbelow, Beau Rumbelow, JJ Rumbelow, and Brixley Cumby; cherished friends Christopher Joseph and Aoi Kaise. She is also survived by numerous dear nieces, nephews and friends.

Kay’s legacy of love, laughter, and generosity will live on in the hearts of all who knew her. Her devotion to family, her smile, and her radiant spirit will never be forgotten.

A rosary will be held on Wednesday, April 16th, at 6:30 PM in the chapel of St. Mary Magdalene Catholic Church in Flint, Texas, for immediate family members. A memorial service will take place on Thursday, April 17th, at 11:00 AM at Boren-Conner Funeral Home in Bullard, Texas, followed by a reception at the home of her daughter, Lori Rumbelow. Bro. Bill Necessary will officate the service.

In honor of her vibrant spirit, the family kindly requests that attendees wear purple, her favorite color.