Joanna Kamp Bates, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, passed away on February 8, 2025, in Denton, Texas, at the age of 85.

Born on November 25, 1939, in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. Joanna was raised by her parents, Dora and Alfred Kamp, alongside her two sisters, Carolyn and Henrietta. She attended Oklahoma State University, where she met the love of her life, Russell Bates. They married on January 24, 1959, and together they built a life filled with love and devotion. They recently celebrated their 66th anniversary. Joanna devoted herself to supporting Russell through school, demonstrating her unwavering commitment to family.

Joanna was the proud mother of three children—Pam, Mike, and Debbie—and the cherished grandmother of eight: Rusty, Heather, Jenny, Natalie, Ty, Bailey, Aaron, and Caitlyn. She was also blessed with two great-granddaughters, Brielle and Eleanor. Nothing brought her more joy than being surrounded by family, and she created a warm, welcoming home where love and laughter flourished.

She especially loved hosting for the holidays, making Christmas and Thanksgiving memorable with her warmth and thoughtful traditions. A passionate reader, she always had a book in hand and found comfort in the stories she loved.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, February 12, 2025, from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM at DeBerry Funeral Home in Denton, Texas. A funeral service will follow on Thursday, February 13, 2025, at 1:00 PM, also at DeBerry Funeral Home in Denton, Tx.

Joanna's love, strength, and warmth will be deeply missed, but her legacy of family, faith, and joy will live on in all who knew her.

John 14:6
Jesus said, "I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me."

Matthew 5:4
Blessed are those who mourn,
for they will be comforted