James "Sarge" Bates

James E. ""Sarge"" Bates, 75, of Venice, FL, formerly of Mansfield, TX passed away April 20, 2015. James was born May 7, 1939 in Madison County, AL to Dessie (White) and Robert Bates. He was Police Officer for the City of Venice, having retired in 1985. He was a United States Veteran, having served in the Marine Corp. James was also a member of New Hope Baptist Church. He was preceded in death by his brothers: Robert, Tom and Mark and sister, Elizabeth ""Liz"". Survivors include his beloved wife of nearly 50 years, Donna Lee; daughters, Ronda Angelo of Benton Harbor, MI and Dawn Marie Bates-Buchanan of Venice, FL; son, James Robert Bates of Cape Girardeau, MO; brother, Charles Bates of Cave Spring, GA; his nephew, Scott Bates of Cave Springs, GA, 4 grandchildren and 11 great grandchildren. Visitation will be from 5-7 PM with Celebration of Life at 7:15 PM on Wednesday, April 22 at Farley Funeral Home, Venice Chapel. Inurnment will be at Gulf Pines Memorial Park. Memorial Donations may be made to New Hope Baptist Church Building Fund, 2100 Englewood Road, Englewood, FL 34223.