Betty Durham Bates

Betty Durham Bates, 86, went home to be with the Lord on Monday, April 12, 2021 at her residence surrounded by her family. She had been in declining health over the past several years.

Mrs. Bates was born September 2, 1934 in Henry County, VA to the late Joseph David Durham and Nannie Earles Durham.

She was employed by Dan River Mills in the weave room for more than 40 years until her retirement in 1995.  She was a charter member of Trinity Church of God and was a devoted pastor’s wife. She was instrumental in raising a number of children in addition to her own children and grandchildren. She was never happier than when she was caring for a child.

Mrs. Bates is survived by her husband, Rev. William Bates, of the residence. They would have celebrated 69 years of marriage on May 2, 2021.  Survivors also include daughters, Cindy Owen and Angela Morris (Mike); son-in-law, Clay Keatts; brother, Joseph Durham (Louise); sisters Barbara Snead and Faye Moore; a special sister-in-law, Hazel Durham; seven grandchildren; sixteen great-grandchildren; one great-great-grandchild; and a number of nieces and nephews.

She was predeceased by her parents; daughters, Micki Mumford and Billie Keatts; brothers, James, Melvin, and Billy Durham; sisters Mary Gravely, Shirley Marlowe, and Frances Reynolds.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to her family-in-love and special caregivers, Anna Gibson and Hannah Beaugez.

A memorial service will be held on Sunday, April 18, 2021 at 2:00 p.m. at Swicegood Funeral Home with Rev. Mike Davis officiating. The family will receive friends on Saturday, April 17, 2021 from 6:00-7:30 p.m. at the funeral home, and at other times at the residence, 640 Edmonds Street, Danville, VA.

Swicegood Funeral Home is respectfully serving the Bates family.

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