Timothy Ryal Bates, born in Clifton, Texas, on May 26, 1963, to Betty Joan Rice and Tommy Roy Bates, passed away peacefully in the arms of Jesus on November 2, 2024, at the age of 61.
Memorial Visitation: 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm Thursday, November 7, 2024, at Lake Shore Funeral Home, 5201 Steinbeck Bend, Waco, Texas. Family and friends are welcome to come and share memories, celebrate Tim’s life, and honor his legacy.
Known fondly as Tim, he grew up in the Waco, Hewitt, and Lorena areas alongside his two sisters, Tamera (Tami) Brooker and Shelley Ashley. Tim was a spirited, joyful man whose radiant smile and infectious laugh could brighten any room. Handsome, quick-witted, and magnetic, Tim naturally gathered people around him and brought warmth to everyone he met.
Timothy graduated from Lorena High School in 1981 and pursued his education at TSTC, where he formed meaningful relationships that ignited his passion for becoming a machinist. Skilled in working with his hands, he possessed a true gift for creating and inventing. His entrepreneurial spirit led him to contribute to the growth of local businesses around Waco and eventually establish two machine shops of his own.
In 1991, Timothy married Virginia (Ginny) Lucas of Lorena, Texas, and together they were blessed with their daughter, Lindsey Delaine Bates. Though they chose separate paths after 22 years, they remained devoted to their family and the love they shared for their daughter and grandchildren.
Tim was drawn to the lake his entire life, finding joy in weekends spent boating, grilling, camping, and making memories with family and friends. He had a passion for cooking, and his steaks and stuffed jalapeños were legendary among his loved ones. A magnetic presence, he was so loved by all who knew him, and his enduring spirit left a lasting impact. Although Tim didn’t have any brothers, he was considered a brother by many, forging lifelong friendships that brought him immense joy and companionship. His friends were as close as family, sharing countless adventures, laughter, and support throughout the years.
Tim was preceded in death by both sets of his grandparents, who played significant roles in his life, including his beloved “Pappy,” Forrest Waldrip of Walnut Springs.
Tim is survived by his loving parents, Betty Joan Bates of Lorena and Tommy Roy Bates and his wife, Teena; his cherished sisters, Tami Brooker and Shelley Ashley and her husband, Tim; his nephews, Jarred Ashley and his wife Halley and Gage Ashley; and many aunts, uncles, cousins, a great niece and nephew and extended family members who will miss him dearly. He is also survived by his cherished daughter, Lindsey Wachsmann, and her husband, Scott, of China Spring, along with his treasured grandchildren, Luke Wachsmann and Kinsley Wachsmann, who affectionately call him “Pappy.”
A devoted father, son, and friend, Tim loved his family deeply and would have done anything for them. He lived by a mantra of resilience, always urging others to “never surrender—no matter what, push through and fight.” His enduring spirit will be carried forward by those who loved him, a legacy that will live on for generations. He will be profoundly missed.
“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day—and not only to me, but also to all who have longed for his appearance.”
2 Timothy 4:7-8 NIV
Place of Service: Lake Shore Funeral Home , 5201 Steinbeck Bend; Waco, TX 76708
Print Obituary & Condolences
Leave Your Condolence