Linda L. Bates
Linda L. Bates
Linda L. Bates, born October 15, 1948, in Marianna, Florida, passed away peacefully on April 28, 2026. Raised in Sneads, Linda later made her home in Thomaston and Yatesville, Georgia, where she spent the bulk of her adult life. She was preceded in death by her loving parents, Etna and Willis J. Granger; her devoted husband, Frank L. Bates; and her brother, Butch Thigpen.
Linda leaves behind a legacy of love and family. She is survived by her three children: Denise King Jackson (Patrick), Billy King (Rebecca), and Angela Hunt (Bryan); grandchildren, Hailee Caldwell (Taylor), Noah King and Ashton Gooden (Zach); great-grandchildren, Conner Caldwell, Cole Caldwell and Evee Gooden. She is also survived by her sisters, Lucy Hudley (Willoughby) and Nancy Granger; a cousin that was just like a brother, Bobby Stinson; as well as a dear friend, Patricia Jackson, and a host of extended family members and friends who will cherish her memory.
Linda dedicated over two decades of her career to serving the State of Georgia. She found joy in gardening, researching her ancestry, cooking, shopping, and sharing meals with loved ones. Following her husband's passing, Linda relocated from their beautiful farm in Yatesville, Georgia, to Florida, where she was able to reconnect with several former classmates and old friends. As a member of Inwood Baptist Church in Grand Ridge, she valued her church community deeply.
Linda’s life was a testament to unwavering love, resilience, and generosity. Her warmth touched every person she met, and the memories she created will forever comfort those she leaves behind. While her presence will be deeply missed, her spirit lives on in the hearts of her family and friends, inspiring them to carry forward the kindness and joy she so freely gave.
Funeral services will be 2:00 P.M. Friday, May 1, 2026 at Marianna Chapel Funeral Home with Reverends Steve Benefield and Chad Roland officiating. Interment will follow at Pope Cemetery in Sneads, Florida with Marianna Chapel Funeral Home directing.
The family will receive friends for visitation one hour prior to the service at Marianna Chapel Funeral Home.
Following the services, friends and family are welcome to gather at Linda’s home in Grand Ridge.
Funeral arrangements are entrusted to the Lambe Family at Marianna Chapel Funeral Home. Condolences may be made online at www.mariannachapelfh.com