Roland Bates, 89, A native of Nacogdoches, TX, who later became a long-time resident of Houston was surrounded by his cherished family and friends while he peacefully gained his wings on July 18, 2023, in Nacogdoches. He was born on November 23, 1933, in Garrison, TX.

Roland had a fulfilling career, working at 7up Corp and HEB before joining Houston Lighting & Power in Deer Park, TX, where he dedicated 26 years of service before retiring.

Besides his professional accomplishments, Roland was a devoted Baseball Coach for 13 years, coaching Little League Baseball teams for the boys and their friends. He also served as the assistant softball coach for his daughter’s team at Broadway Baptist High School for four years. Roland’s passion for baseball extended to his love for the Astros, and he shared a special bond with his beloved cats.

Roland is now reunited with his loving wife, Ann Bates, his daughter, Michelle Bates, and his sons, David Roland Bates and Gary Keith Bates. He is preceded in death by his parents, Willis and Frances Bates, and his siblings: Glenna Sisson, Edith “Jo” Williams, Elizabeth Buchanan (his twin sister), and William Bates, Sr.

Roland leaves behind cherished memories for his daughter, DeeAnn Bates-Walia, and his grandchildren: Chelsea Bates and Ernie Herrera, along with his wife Gina. He was a proud great-grandfather to Ernie, Evelyn, and Emalee. Additionally, he is survived by numerous nieces and nephews who adored him.

A gathering of family and friends will be held at 5 p.m. on Monday, July 24, 2023, followed by a service at 6 p.m. in the chapel of Crowder Funeral Home in Pearland. The graveside service will take place on Tuesday, July 25, 2023, at 1 p.m. at Forest Park Lawndale in Houston.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests contributions in Roland’s name to be made to the Nacogdoches Treatment Center at 119 Hughes St, Nacogdoches, TX 75961. This gesture will honor his memory and support a cause dear to his heart. https://nactreatmentcenter.org/