Susan Maurine Bates

Mrs. Susan Maurine (Wise) Bates, age 87, of Wilson, passed away peacefully at her residence on Sunday, May 10, 2026. Services are entrusted to Alexander Gray Funeral Home and Crematory in Wilson, with no services currently scheduled.

Born May 27, 1938, in Crane, Missouri, Susan was the daughter of the late Bryan William Wise and Iderah Elizabeth Porterfield. She met her beloved husband, John Bates, while working at a café in Elk City during his tenure in the oilfield. They married on November 27, 1955, and together built a loving family, raising three children: Steve, Paul, and Janice.

Throughout her life, Susan dedicated herself as a homemaker while also contributing her efforts at a local school during her younger years. She was a skilled seamstress who lovingly crafted clothing for her family, and she embraced a variety of pursuits including raising goats, chickens, peacocks, and breeding small dogs. Her creativity extended into the arts—she was passionate about painting, making porcelain dolls, and other crafts, often showcasing her handmade creations at craft shows.

Family was central to Susan’s life. She treasured traveling with her loved ones, enjoying annual family vacations and, later with her husband John, exploring destinations across the United States. Alaska held a special place in their hearts, as they visited there five times.

Susan found joy in the simple pleasures of life such as bird watching, fishing, reading, and especially tending to flowers—whether wildflowers growing naturally or those she cultivated around her home. She will be remembered for her artistic talents, industrious nature, adventurous spirit, and profound love for her family and friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, John Bates; son, Paul Bates; and brothers, Bill and Leon Wise.

Susan is survived by her children Steve Bates and Janice White and husband Jimmy; brother Roy Joe Wise and wife Debbie; grandchildren Ginger Vazquez and husband Ricky, Jason Bates and wife Megan, Joni Henry and husband Rounder, and Nichole Ramsey and husband Koy; great-grandchildren Isabella, Atticus, Rylee, Luke, Stella, Sutton, and Saylor; along with a large circle of extended family and friends.

Memories and condolences may be shared online at www.alexandergrayfh.com.