"He gave me the experience of being deeply understood, truly supported and completely and utterly loved – and I will carry that with me always. We've shared our lives these many years. You've held my hand; you still hold my heart." – Jana Bates

Clinton Thomas 'Tom' Bates, beloved husband, father, and grandfather, passed away at the age of 76 on November 25, 2024 in League City, Texas.  Born in Natchitoches, Louisiana on October 8,1948, Clinton was the son of Mae Beth Leard and Clinton Ray Bates. He was a proud graduate of Madill High School, Class of 1966.

Clinton was the cherished spouse of Jana Hewitt Bates for 56 years. They dated throughout high school and college, sharing their lives for over 60 years.

Clinton was a dedicated family man and will be remembered for his positive qualities; his kindness, humor, generosity and love for his children. He is survived by his wife, Jana; children, Timothy and his wife Stacy, of Marysville, Ohio; and Nathan and his wife Amanda, of League City, Texas; grandsons, Thomas Bates and Kaiden Schoolcraft; as well as his two beloved sisters Jonnie Ray Hillard and Cindy Gilmore.

Clinton found success in education as well as several careers during his lifetime.  He obtained his Bachelor's Degree in Engineering Technology at Southeastern Oklahoma State University and worked for Otis Engineering, a division of Halliburton, for ten years.  He then obtained his MBA at the University of North Texas and was a successful business consultant for FEMA while also owning and managing an H&R Block Franchise in Sanger, Texas.

In remembrance of Clinton's life, in lieu of flowers, the family requests that charitable donations be made to The American Cancer Society or the MD Anderson Cancer Center.