Elizabeth Bates, 71, of Blytheville, AR, departed from this life on July 27, 2024, at St. Bernard's Medical Center in Jonesboro, AR. She was born May 16, 1953, in Blytheville, AR, and was one of seven children to the late James Earl Smith and the late Bernice Malone.

Elizabeth was a retired cook for the Blytheville School District and was of the Christian Faith. She was a dedicated member of the Church of the Lord Jesus Christ, in Blytheville, AR, where she was both the superintendent and a missionary.

In addition to her parents, James and Bernice Smith, Elizabeth was preceded in death by her husband, Robert Earl Bates, two brothers, Robert Smith Sr, and Charles Smith, and one sister, Catherine Edwards.

She leaves to cherish her memory with her son, Roderick Bates of Blytheville, AR, three brothers, Sammie Smith of Memphis, TN, Elder Curtis Smith Sr. of Blytheville, AR, and Wyll Smith Jr. of Memphis, TN, one sister, Phyllis Lark (Kellogg) of Oklahoma, as well as one grandchild, Briella Joy Bates of Blytheville, AR.

The family of Elizabeth Bates will accept visitors Saturday, August 10, 2024, at the Church of the Lord Jesus Christ in Blytheville, AR, from 9:00 am to 10:00 am with the funeral to follow at 10:00 am.  Burial will be held at Memory Gardens Cemetery with Elder Harold McDonald officiating.

Wilson Funeral Home in Blytheville, AR, will be in charge of the arrangements.