John Henry "Dink" Bates, 91, of Franklin, went home to be with Jesus on Sunday, September 24, 2023.

Born in Macon County, he was the son of the late General Ted Bates and Maggie Elizabeth Collier Bates. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by one brother, Furman Bates, and three sisters, Elina Parker, Betty Lou Bates, and Joanne Bates. Dink was a member at Central Baptist Church. He enjoyed digging ramps, growing flowers, and loved being outside walking.

He is survived by one sister, Debbie Carver (Kenneth) of Franklin; 9 nieces and nephews, Rosie Bradley (Chris), Bobby Parker, Stanley Parker, Keith Parker, Georgia Parker, Mariam Anderson, Eddie Bates, Michael Bates, and Jonathan Bates; and 8 great nieces and nephews, Maddie Bradley, Asa Bradley, Wendy Sargent, Shane Parker, Wade Parker, Jenna Corbitt, Anna Green, and Elizabeth Cooper.

Funeral Service will be 2pm on Sunday, October 1 at Macon Funeral Home. Rev. Morris Tippett and Rev. Neal Ammons will officiate. The burial will be in the Gillespie Chapel Cemetery.

The family will receive friends from 1pm to 2pm, one hour prior to the service at the funeral home.

Pallbearers will be Bobby Parker, Chris Bradley, Asa Bradley, Keith Parker, Jorge Corbitt, and Chris Mathis.

Online condolences can be made at www.maconfuneralhome.com.

Macon Funeral Home is handling the arrangements.