The Richmond News, April 12, 2024

Ralph Douglas “Doug” Bates, 66, of rural Norborne passed away Sunday, March 31, 2024, at University Hospital in Columbia.

Doug was born Dec. 17, 1957, in Waverly, the son of Albert “Leroy” and Patricia Ann (Stroud) Bates.

He was united in marriage to Debra Lynn Cowick of Carrollton on Nov. 13, 1976, at the First Baptist Church of Carrollton. She preceded Ralph Bates

him in death on Aug. 11, 2018.

Survivors include his mother, Patricia Bates of Norborne; two sons, Bradley Alan Bates (Kathy) of Moberly and Tommy Lee Bates (Tiffanie Banks) of Norborne; grandson, Adrian Lee Bates; two brothers, Rick Bates of Norborne and Robert (Mindy) Bates of Richmond; and sister, Lisa (Alan) Rainey of Norborne.

He was preceded in death by his father; wife; and two infant sons, Ralph Douglas Bates Jr. and Curtis Wayne Bates.

Ralph was reared and educated in Norborne and graduated with the class of 1976 from Norborne High School.

He worked for Fuller Marketing and Banquet Foods in Carrollton, then for Henkel in Richmond for seven years before retiring in July 2022.

Ralph enjoyed trapping, fishing and hunting. He also enjoyed family get-togethers, having fish fries and making other big meals together, but especially spending time with his kids and grandson. Ralph was always lending a hand to those around him and never met a stranger. He will be dearly missed by his family and friends.

The family suggests memorial contributions be made to the family’s choice. They can be left at or mailed to Thurman Funeral Home; 507 E. Main St.-P.O. Box 190; Richmond, MO 64085.

Visitation with memorial services were held Thursday, April 4, at Thurman Funeral Home in Norborne, with visitation beginning at 10 a.m., followed by the services at 11.

Inurnment will be held at a later date. Please share your memories of Doug with the family by visiting www.thurmanfuneralhome.com.