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Peggy Ann Holden Bates, affectionately known as “Gribby,” was born on Nov. 1, 1944, in Bogalusa, Louisiana. She lived a long, precious life of 79 years.

She was called to her Heavenly home on Jan. 14, 2024. Peggy is preceded in death by her loving husband, William Curtis Bates; her parents, Geraldine Bond Reynolds and Lavern Holden; two infant siblings, Freddy Ray and Betty Lynn; and a grandson, Shawn Whiteside.

She leaves behind two sisters, Mary Mizell and Judy Brumfield; a step sister, Judy (Qua) Smith; her only son, Michael “Todd” Bates; two stepsons, David (Stephanie) Bates and Robert (Valerie) Bates; three grandchildren, Jessika Haley Whiteside, Morgan (John Roy) Mullett, and Michael (Kayla) Bates; eight great-grandchildren: Myles, David, Curtis, Brody, Josie, Sunni, William, and Jack. Numerous step-grandchildren and great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. She had a hand in raising many children who were not related to her at all and loved everyone who walked through her door as her own.

A memorial service will be held at New Beginnings Baptist Church in Thomas, La., on Jan. 27 at 11:00 a.m.