Joy Thompson Bates

Rena “Joy” Thompson Bates, 58, passed away peacefully on May 22, 2025. Joy was born in Danville, VA on March 31, 1967 to the late Gloria Ann Sigmon Thompson and the late Harold Webster Thompson Sr. She is survived by her loving husband of many years, Mr. Michael Dean Bates.

Joy was of the Christian Faith. She worked for many years previous to her retirement at Ben David Jewelers. After retirement, she worked in veteran affairs at Spectrum Medical Group.

In addition to her husband, Joy is survived by a son; J.J. Hogancamp; two step daughters; India Bennett and Skylar Dunn; two brothers; Tim and Steve Thompson; two sisters; Becky and Pam Spencer; seven grandchildren; Joshua Moore, Jaxon Lawson, Jameson Dunn, Imani Bennett, Terriona Bennett, McKinley Dunn, and McKayla Dunn; a god daughter; Meredith Spencer.

In addition to her parents, Joy was predeceased by a brother; Butch Thompson and a sister; Dawn Stroud.

No Formal Services are planned at this time.

Norris Funeral Services, Inc. & Crematory, Mt. Hermon Chapel, Danville, VA is respectfully serving the Bates family. Online condolences may be made at www.norrisfuneral.com.