Shirley Ann Bates of Columbia, Tennessee

July 22, 1954 - July 6, 2022

It is with a heavy heart and great sadness that we must inform you that our beloved and cherished Mother and dear friend Shirley A. Bates left this world on July 6 ^th . Shirley was a kind and loving soul and will be deeply missed by all that knew her. Shirley loved her family, friends, and even strangers with all her heart. Shirley was kind to everyone; she did not see color she only saw a human being and wanted to help everyone she encountered. Shirley loved nature and was an amazing artist who lived her life to help others. Shirly was born in Gainesboro Tennessee and graduated high school there. Shirley traveled the United States in her younger years but came back home to Tennessee to raise her family with strong southern values with respect for others and honest hard work at the top of list. She returned to school and got a degree in computer accounting to better provide for her family. Shirley met her soulmate in her husband Leon, and they got to enjoy twenty-plus years together. They traveled to exotic locations and lived a peaceful life together. Goodbye for now Mama we love, we miss you, and we will all be together one day. Shirley is survived by her son’s Jason and Jonathan, her daughter Tammy Sisco, her grand children Tyler, Jayden, and Jordyn and the rest of her family, as well as all her friends which she considered family. In lieu of flowers or money the family ask that you donate to one of these charities Second Harvest Food Bank of Middle Tennessee, ST. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital, Feeding America, or the charity of your choice so that someone less fortunate than you can get the help they need. Thank you to all that have shown kindness and support in our time of need.