Frances Mae Bates

Frances Mae Smith Bates, passed away on October 18, 2023, at the age of 96. She was born on September 3, 1927, in Davidson County, North Carolina, to her loving parents, George and Esther Smith. Frances was a remarkable woman, cherished by her family and friends. Frances was preceded in death by her parents, her beloved husband, Thomas J. Smith, her two sons, Gary and Danny, her brothers, Paul Smith, RJ Smith, Jerry Robinson, and George Smith, Jr., and her sisters, Annie Stanly, Hazel Little, and Helen Washburn. The loss of these dear family members weighed heavy on her heart, and she now joins them in eternal peace. Left to cherish her memory are her brother, Steve Smith. Additionally, Frances is survived by numerous nieces and nephews whom she loved dearly. Her warm and caring presence in their lives will be sorely missed, but her memory will forever be a source of inspiration and comfort to all who knew her. A graveside service to honor and celebrate the life of Frances Mae Smith Bates will be held at 2 pm on Monday, October 23, 2023, at Forest Hill Memorial Park. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to a charity of your choice in Frances's honor. May she rest in eternal peace, reunited with her loved ones who have gone before her.