DEACON SYLVESTER BATES

Sylvester Bates entered peacefully into eternal rest on Tuesday, November 28, 2023, at the age of 72. He was a native of New Orleans, LA and a resident of Harvey, LA. Sylvester was a graduate of Lincoln High School in Marrero, LA Class of 1969.  He received a football scholarship to attend Grambling State University, where he played defensive tackle, and graduated in 1974 with a bachelor’s degree in Recreation. Sylvester was employed for a short time with the Jefferson Parish Public School System as a teacher.  He later changed careers and became a panel board operator with Cornerstone (Cytec), from which he retired after 34 years of dedicated service. Sylvester was a faithful member of Shiloh Missionary Baptist Church, where he served as Co-Chairman of the Deacon Board. Deacon Bates will be remembered for his love of family, cooking, baking, traveling, electronics, and his passion for football.   Devoted husband of Faye Mickey Bates, who also served as his caregiver. Stepfather of Joe Webber, Jr., Brandon (Alishia) Webber, and Janae Webber. Son of the late Robert Bates, Jr. and Eliza Mae Jackson Bates. Brother of Eliza Bates Thomas, Calvin (Helen) Bates, Sylvia (Herbert) Washington, John Bates, Angela (Calvin) Thomas, Maggilene (Lester, Sr.) Moran, Michael, Terry, Lawrence (Sonia) and Alesha Bates, and the late Robert Bates, III. Nephew of Evelyn Jackson. Godfather of Tondra Gilbert and the late Salatheal Zeno Walthour, also survived by a host of nieces, nephews, great nieces, and nephews, other relatives, and friends. Relatives and friends of the family also pastors, officers, and members of Shiloh Missionary Baptist Church, and neighboring churches are invited to attend the Celebration of Life at Shiloh Missionary Baptist Church 1419 4th Street, Westwego, LA on Saturday, December 9, 2023, at 10:00a.m. Pastor Woodrow Hayden officiating. Visitation will begin at 8:30a.m. at the above named church. Interment: Westlawn Cemetery-Gretna, LA. Arrangements by Davis Mortuary Service 230 Monroe St. Gretna, LA.  To view and sign the guestbook, please go to www.davismortuaryservice.com.  

FACE MASKS ARE RECOMMENDED.