Byron Bates

Byron Thomas Bates, 68, passed away peacefully into eternity with our Lord Jesus Christ, on August 14, 2026. Byron was born to Charles Thomas Bates and LaVerne Ruth Bates (Garr), on July 31, 1958, in McPherson, Kansas.

Most of Byron’s youth and formative years were spent in Kansas, where he graduated high school and attended Kansas State University (K-State). While at K-State, Byron was elected as President of Marketing Club bringing in a multitude of leaders and dignitaries – including former Governor Bennett of Kansas. In addition, he was responsible for hosting an international summit on campus. 

Upon graduating from K-State, Byron married in 1981 and moved to the Dallas, Texas area. Byron’s love for animals led him to a multi-decade long career in the pet industry. His only child, Brandon Charles Bates, was born on August 22, 1992. Byron and his son traveled the world together, having visited over 40 countries. They both had a passion for travel and sharing experiences together. Byron will be dearly missed by all who knew him, especially for his ability to bring a smile and a sense of light to everyone, even in life’s heaviest moments. 

He is preceded in death by Charles Thomas Bates and LaVerne Ruth Bates. Byron is survived by his son Brandon Charles Bates of Fairhope, Alabama, and his brother Dennis Charles Bates of Palm Springs, California. 

Visitation is at Criswell Funeral Home in Ada, Oklahoma, on Friday, September 4, 2026, at 5:00 PM. The Memorial Service will be held at Oak Avenue Baptist Church in Ada, Oklahoma at 10:00 AM on Saturday, September 5, 2026.