April 17, 1928-August 13, 2026
Nancy Jane (Black) Bates, age 98, of Houghton Lake, passed away on Thursday, August 13, 2026, at home, surrounded by her family.
Nancy was born on April 17, 1928, in Essexville, Michigan, to Ovid and Iva (McCoy) Black. She was married to Rev. Donald Bates (Retired Elder), who preceded her in death. Nancy was a United Methodist minister’s wife for over 40 years. Retired to Houghton Lake in 1989.
Nancy is survived by her children, David (Korliss) Bates, Kathy (Frankie) Ward, Jonathan (Judy) Bates, and Dawn (Scott) Bond, fifteen grandchildren, sixteen great-grandchildren, daughter-in-law, Tracy Bates, and sister, Darlene Mongeau. She was preceded in death by her parents, son, Bruce Bates, siblings, Luanne Parker, and brother, Divere Black.
A Celebration of Life service will be held at a later date. You may express your condolences to the family at www.christler-holdship.com. Christler Funeral Home-Prudenville Chapel is handling the arrangements.
Last Updated on September 23, 2026