Robert Noel Bates

April 27, 1944 - November 21, 2024

Robert Noel “Bob” Bates, of Panama City, Florida, peacefully transitioned to his heavenly home surrounded by his family on Thursday, November 21, 2024. He was born on April 27, 1944 in Alexandria, Virginia to Guy and Esther Mae Bates, who preceded him to heaven along with his sister Pamela Mae Ferst and her husband Charlie.

Upon graduation from Virginia Polytechnic Institute (Virginia Tech), Bob was commissioned into the United States Air Force and proudly served his country four years at Tyndall Air Force Base. He later retired after 30 years of managing Tyndall’s Natural Resources Program. His educational background and career in forestry reflected his passion for God’s creation through nature and wildlife. Bob was a true and avid sportsman and loved to hunt but his passion lied both in and on the water, diving, and fishing until his heart’s content. His passions progressed into a lifelong roll of teaching many others the art of diving and fishing. Bob could design and build anything and loved doing so. He served his church, First Baptist of Panama City, through many activities and programs including his service as a Deacon. 

Bob loved his family, friends, and country but most of all his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. He was a loving husband to his wife and best friend, Joy, of 41 years and a proud father and grandfather of his children and grandchildren. Unwavering in his faith in a world of constant turmoil, his beliefs remained unchanged. No illness, evil, nor earthly struggle could deter a faith as solid as his. He overcame many health obstacles throughout a long battle with cancer, retaining a positive attitude and having total trust in God’s plan for his life. 

While our hearts grieve for the time lost with Bob here on earth, we rejoice that he is in the presence and healing arms of our Heavenly Father. Bob touched many lives and will be greatly missed but always remembered as a man of strong faith and determination.

He is survived by his wife, Joy; his children Anne Reed (Tim) and Jennifer Saada (Daniel); his grandchildren Grace Reed, Grant Reed, and Jefferson Moody; brother-in-law Bill Gilbert (Kathy); special nieces and their families; and many cherished friends. 

The family would like to thank his medical team at M.D. Anderson and Florida Cancer Affiliates and each one of the incredible family members and friends who walked beside Bob throughout his entire battle with cancer. 

Funeral services will be held in Meadows of Dan, Virginia at 2:00 p.m. Sunday, December 1, 2024 at Burks Fork Church, officiated by Pastor Mike Battle, followed by interment at Laurel Springs Farm Family Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to First Baptist Church of Panama City Building Fund or The Trees Remember (the treesremember.com).