Ricky Lee Bates, 51, passed away on July 4, 2013 of natural causes in Webster, Texas. He was born on October 22, 1961 at Hendricks Memorial Hospital in Abilene, Texas. Ricky grew up in Van Vleck, Texas where he attended Van Vleck High School. Ricky worked as a farmer for many years in and around Matagorda County. Ricky enjoyed spending time fishing and cooking for his family and friends. Ricky never met a stranger and could always bring laughter to any room. Ricky will be remembered for his constant joking, love of animals and ability to talk about any topic for hours on end.

Ricky is survived by: his son, Ricky Lee Bates II of Bay City, Texas; daughter, Jennifer Kaye Butman of Abilene, Texas; granddaughter Baylee Jae Bates; and grandson, Dominic JoeRay Camacho. Ricky is preceded in death by his parents, Jimmy and Sue Bates of Van Vleck, Texas.

The family will receive visitors from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM on Thursday, August 1, 2013 at the funeral home. A funeral service will be held 10:00 AM Friday, August 2, 2013 at Taylor Bros. Funeral Home with Rev. Chester Sassman officiating. Interment will follow at Roselawn Memorial Park in Van Vleck, Texas.