Lillie Jean Bates, age 86, of Benndale, MS passed away on December 19, 2025.

Lillie was a faithful member of the First Jesus Name Church of Benndale. She devoted many years of her life serving others, working as a dietary aid at Glen Oaks Nursing Home, and later a cashier for Walmart, where she was known for her kindness, dedication, and friendly spirit.

She was an avid reader who loved to travel and express herself through songwriting. Above all else Lillie cherished her family of five generations and was proud to have personally raised three of them. Her love, strength, and guidance will continue to live through them.

She is preceded in death by son, Kenneth Ray Ford; daughter, Donna Jean Ford; stepfathers: James W Pace Sr, and Roy 'Buck' Hamilton, mother, Lula 'Snook" Hamilton; brother, Billy "Pinky" Hamilton; husband, Luther "Tiny" Bates and Kenneth Don Ford; grandson, Troy "TD" Ford Jr.; granddaughter, Phynix Havard.

She is survived by siblings; James "JR" Pace, Johnny Pace, Don Pace, Roy "PeeWee" Hamilton, Alice "Sue" Hamilton and Bob Hamilton; children: Darlene Simons of Sikes, LA; Shelia (Larry) Heyl of Eros, LA; Troy (Rhonda) Ford, Sr. of Benndale, MS; Tracey (Wain) Fals of Benndale, MS; and Brandy (David) Havard of Benndale, MS. She is also survived by her grandchildren: Chris Simons, Tina McDonald, Jonathan Heyl, Jason Heyl, Jeffery Heyl, Justin Heyl, Lisa Ford, Heather Stauter, Erica Polanco, and Anna Sweeting; special mention of great grandson Haidyn Stauter along with 24 great-grandchildren and 7 great-great-grandchildren.

Lillie was truly one of a kind and will forever live in the hearts of those who knew and loved her.

The funeral will be held 1:00 pm on Tuesday, December 23, 2025 at First Jesus Name Church of Benndale, Hwy 57 South, Benndale, MS with Rev William Moore officiating.  Burial will be in First Jesus Name Church Cemetery.

Calling hours will be Tuesday, December 23, 2025 from 11:30am- 1:00pm at First Jesus Name Church Of Benndale, Hwy 57 South, Benndale, MS.

Sigler Funeral Home, 601-947-3112, www.siglerfuneral.com, 4248 Main Street, Lucedale, MS, is in charge of arrangements.