Donald "Sonny" Ray Bates Sr.

Donald "Sonny" Ray Bates Sr., 77, of Fayetteville, passed away Tuesday, November 6, 2018 at his home. He was born February 13, 1941 in Carrollton, Mo. to Joseph (Benny) and Esther Weigant Bates. He was preceded in death by his parents; a brother, Harold D. Bates; sisters, Avonlee (Bonnie) Ford and Charlotte Roach; and a grandson, Christopher Ray Bates. Sonny was a brick mason for 40 years and was a member of Sulphur City Baptist Church. He is survived by his wife, Sharon Shackelford Bates of the home; a son, Donald Bates, Jr and wife, Anita of Springdale; a daughter, Raeshelle Hawkins and husband, Bobby of Elkins; brothers, David Bates of Herrington, KS and Joseph G. Bates of Carrollton, Mo.; sisters, Patricia Groce and Benny Bee Blum, both of Prairie Grove; eight grandchildren; and eight great-grandchildren. The family will receive friends from 5-7 p.m. Friday, November 9, 2018 at Beard's Chapel. Funeral services will be 2 p.m. Saturday, November 10, 2018 at Beard's Chapel with Pastor Dallas Auslam officiating. Interment will follow in Baptist Ford Cemetery under the direction of Beard's Chapel. Condolences at www.beardsfuneralchapel.com.