Blanche Gertrude Bates

Blanche Taylor Bates, age 94, a long-time resident of the Reliance community in Polk County, Tennessee passed away September 27, 2025.

She was preceded in death by her husband of 42 years, Thomas H. Bates Jr.; daughter, Judy Carver; and granddaughter, Jessica Carver Blackwell.

She was the daughter of the late John and Linda (Wilcox) Taylor, and was the last surviving sibling of a large family. She was also preceded in death by brothers: Joe Taylor, Abe Taylor, Clarence Taylor, and John Roy Taylor; and sisters: Lou Ledford, Bonnie Farmer, and Lillie Mae King.

She is survived by her children: sons, Randy Bates (Sybil) and Willard Bates, and daughter, Holly Campbell (Mark). Grandchildren: Johnathan Bates, Heather Carver, Henry Campbell, and Caroline Campbell. Great-grandchildren: Kimberly Blackwell, Christian Blackwell, Alicia Carver, Dylan Carver, and Jaxon Bates.

Blanche was a talented seamstress and especially enjoyed making quilts. She also loved taking care of her houseplants and studying the Bible. Her favorite places were the Smoky Mountains and the area where she was born; in and around Turtletown on the Tennessee/North Carolina border.

She will always be remembered for her genuine and loving personality. She was the heart of her family and will be missed so much.

There will be receiving of friends at Poole Funeral Home in Etowah, Friday, October 10th from 1PM to 2PM. She was of the Baptist faith. Burial will be private at Archville Baptist Church.