Kenneth Wayne Bates, 68, of Taft, Tennessee, passed away Sunday, Oct. 8, 2023, at his residence surrounded by his loving family.

He was born in Lincoln County, Tennessee, on Oct. 21, 1954.

He was preceded in death by his father, James Patrick Bates and his mother and stepfather, Beatrice (George) Painter; in-laws, Huey (Millie) Yell; grandparents, Raymond (Rosie) Bates and Henry (Emma) Howard and some very special friends throughout the years.

Per his wishes, there will be no funeral services, but there will be a celebration of life held at his residence at 1 p.m. Oct. 21, 2023, for anyone who would like to come and remember his life with his friends and family.

Kenneth was the owner of Bates Disposal for the past 24 years. Prior to that he operated heavy equipment, worked construction, drove a semi, and worked as a mechanic. Some say he was a jack of all trades and could fix anything. In his spare time, he loved being in his garage working on things. He was always a busy man and enjoyed working. He also loved spending time with his family. He is survived by his wife of 49 years, Pamela Ann Bates; daughter, Angela (Ralph) Linnell; grandson, Dakota (Sarah) Linnell; granddaughter, Dezaray (Michael) Kelton; great-grandchildren, Jazmine Linnell and soon to arrive, baby Cordell Linnell; sister-in-law, Stella Louise Fowler; nephews, Greg (Kandy) Dunn, Chad (Jeanna) Gray, Jason (Kim) Gray and a slew of special friends.

Lynchburg Funeral Home is overseeing the arrangements.