Catherine Bates

Mrs. Catherine Horn Bates was born on June 16, 1933 to the Late Mr. Herman Horn and Rosie Larkin Horn in Bessemer, AL. Catherine was the youngest of seven Children. Catherine accepted Christ in her life at an early age and was baptized at the 28th Street Church of God in Bessemer, AL. She taught Sunday school for many years. Later she worked diligently on the Usher Board until her health declined. Catherine was united in holy matrimony to the Late Augustus Bates, and to this union, God blessed them with one daughter, Vanessa Bates Sylvester. Catherine Bates Affectionately known as "Cat" was a devoted wife and loving mother. She loved her family and friends unconditionally and she would offer support and inspiration to all she encountered. Catherine was a graduate of Dunbar High School in Bessemer, AL where she participated in the band as a majorette for five years. She Graduated from Alabama A & M University where she received A Bachelor of Science Degree and A Masters of Arts Degree in Elementary Education. She taught seven years at Ishkooda elementary and Twenty -Four years at Wenonah elementary. After thirty one years of dedicated service( Jefferson County School system ) she retired in 1986. Catherine Bates was an active and hard working person. She believed in Community service. She was a member of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. She worked with the local Chapter and received awards and recognition for her service and dedication to the Sorority. She was also a member of Alabama A & M Alumni Association. She was secretary of the South Goldwire-Maple Avenue Block Club. She was a member of the Mason City Neighborhood Association and worked as a dedicated Poll Official at Precinct 52-07. After an extended illness and a sudden medical emergency, Catherine departed this life May 13, 2011. She leaves to cherish and celebrate her life: a loving and devoted daughter; Vanessa Bates Sylvester, of Birmingham and New Orleans, A Son-n-law Fred Sylvester, of New Orleans and Birmingham, Two Grandchildren; Catherine G. Sylvester(actively serving in the United States Navy), of San Diego, California and Damien Sylvester of Los Angeles, California, One Sister; Ora H. Foster of Bessemer, Al; one brother, Nathaniel Horn (Rose) of Chicago, IL; Three Sister-in-Laws, Jewel (Lovodas) Heard of Birmingham, AL, Clara Bates, and Emma Jean Bates of Birmingham, AL. Four Brother-n-laws; Jerome Clara) Bates of Decatur, GA, Johnnie Bates, Joe Felton, and Rev J. Anderson all of Birmingham, AL, a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and many beloved relatives and friends.