Scott Michael Bates, 41, of League City, Texas passed away unexpectedly in a car accident on his way to work out of state on Wednesday, August 21, 2024, in Brinkley, Arkansas.

Scott was born on April 7, 1983, in Orange County, California, giving him that super cool surfer-vibe that made him so unique. He was a talented baseball player with dad as his coach, accidentally breaking countless windows and constantly getting into shenanigans. He could often be found with his glove in-hand, just in case someone was ready for a game of catch. His love for baseball was evident to anyone who knew him. His family moved to Texas while in high school, where he quickly became a true Texan at heart (with the exception of never saying the word “y’all.”)

In 2007, Scott married the love of his life Maricarmen, whom he lovingly called “Carmen,” “Carmen Marie” or “Woman.” For 17 years, Scott was a devoted husband and amazing daddy to his two beautiful daughters, Savannah Jo and Molly Marie. They were truly his whole world.

As a devoted Christian, Scott was active in his church community and was loved by his friends and extended family as well. He had a servant’s heart and was known for his love of cooking for others. He was not a fan of large social situations, but could often be found having deep one-on-one heart conversations with friends and strangers alike. People were drawn to his light. He had the unique ability to always see the good in people. He prioritized starting each day in God’s word, and it was evident in the way he lived his life.

On Sunday mornings, he volunteered countless hours with his wife and daughters in the church nursery (both in the 3-year-old classroom and holding babies.) Children of all ages were always drawn to Scott’s kindness, and he was often more comfortable hanging out at the kids table at family get-togethers. Kids and babies felt safe and loved with him.

Weekends with friends and family were always a blast with Scott around; grilling, watching the Astros/Texans (or any sport really), and making everyone laugh with his goofy antics and pranks. He was famous for loving fiery foods, so you often had to ask if the hot-sauce available was just spicy, or Scott-HOT (A.K.A. inferno-level).

He was so talented at so many things – a jack of all trades! And was known for always loving to help friends in need. There was nothing more important to him than loving his family and protecting/providing for his girls, and he made sure every person he encountered knew this about him. When talking about the Kingdom of Heaven, he always said he could not wait to get there and play ping-pong with Jesus.

Scott is preceded in death by his grandparents Jack Verle & Bertis Merline Cannon Vandervort, Howard Leroy & Evelyn Marie Duckett Bates.

Scott is survived by his beloved wife Carmen Bates; and his daughters Savannah and Molly Bates; his parents Michael and Sandra Bates; his parents-in-love George and Betty Foster; his siblings Jason Bates (G. L. Black), Jaclyn Bates; siblings-in-love Betsey Ennis (John), Steven Foster (Florencia), Jonathan Foster (Mary); and 11 beloved nieces and nephews who he adored. He was the cool uncle.

The celebration of life will take place at Gateway Community Church (760 Clear Lake City Blvd., Webster, TX 77598) on Saturday, September 7 at 11 a.m. (Preceded by a Rosary at 10 a.m. & concludes with a light lunch in the Gateway Life Center for family and close friends.)

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you please consider donating to Molly and Savannah’s college account.

Checks can made payable to: National Financial Services with Memo: Bates Girls

Checks can be mailed to: Precept Wealth Management, 19506 Hwy. 59 N, Suite 315, Humble, TX 77338

https://www.preceptwm.com/ministry

Or dropped off in the designated box at the celebration of life.

You can also donate to the scholarship digitally via:
Venmo: @CarmenBates
CashApp: $CarmenBates28

Please put “Bates Girls” in the memo line.