James William Bates, 77 of Stonington passed away on Thursday, October 26, 2017 at 2:35 a.m. at Decatur Memorial Hospital in Decatur, IL. He was born on August 12, 1940 in Poughkeepsie, AR the Son of Earnest and Viva (Smith) Bates. He married Marsha McDonald on June 16, 1961 in Ava, IL. Jim worked as a superintendent at Stonington Grain Co-Op.

Surviving are his Wife: Marsha Bates of Stonington, IL; Son: Todd (Kathy) Bates of Taylorville, IL; Grandchildren: Brooke and Judd Bates of Taylorville, IL; Sisters: Lola (Jim) Kail of Ava, IL and Ella Lomprez of Taylorville, IL; Brother: Galen (Linda) Bates of Edinburg, IL; Several Nieces, Nephews and Cousins. He was preceded in death by his parents, Grandaughter: Marissa Kathleen Bates, Brother: Bill Bates and Sister: Wanda Bottoms.

Graveside services will be held on Monday, October 30, 2017 at 11:00 a.m. at Bethel Cemetery in Sharpsburg with Pastor Ted Merrinan officiating. Burial will be held in Bethel Cemetery in Sharpsburg, IL.

Memorials may be made to the American Cancer Society P.O. Box 22718 Oklahoma City, OK 73123.

Sutton Memorial Home in Taylorville is assisting the family with arrangements.

Sign on-line guest book at www.suttonmemorialhome.com.