Obituary

Cullman, Alabama – With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of JoAnne Phillips Bates, beloved mother, grandmother, sister, and friend. JoAnne passed away suddenly on Friday, May 24, 2024, at the age of 79, due to a pulmonary embolism.

JoAnne was born on November 2, 1944, in Warren, Texas, to Lewis Shaver and Zelda Wright Shaver. She moved to Cullman, Alabama, after marrying her first husband, T.E. Phillips Jr., in 1958. They welcomed three daughters into the world before giving birth to their only son and, later, two more daughters. After her first husband’s passing, JoAnne found love again with Ellis Bates.

Throughout her life, JoAnne wore many hats. She worked as a dedicated home health nurse, bringing comfort and care to countless patients who adored her. After her retirement, she couldn’t resist the call of the workforce and became a legal secretary for her daughter Catherine. There, too, she made a lasting impact, leaving an imprint of her warmth and wit on clients and colleagues alike.

JoAnne’s greatest passion was her family. She loved her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren more than anything in the world. She was always ready with a warm embrace, a listening ear, and a mischievous twinkle in her eye. Her grandchildren will cherish the countless memories of laughter and love they shared with their “Mimi.”

Tributes and Legacy

JoAnne was preceded in death by her parents, all of her siblings, her first husband, T.E. Phillips Jr.; three of her children: T.E. Phillips III, Connie Phillips Evans, and Camillia Phillips; and her second husband, Ellis Bates.

She is survived by three of her children: Cindy Phillips Hardy, Candy Phillips Thomas, and Catherine Phillips Carter; her beloved son-in-law, Catherine’s husband, David Carter; eleven grandchildren; two stepsons, Toby Bates and Marty Bates; many nieces and nephews; and grand nieces and nephews.

JoAnne’s legacy will live on through the countless lives she touched. Her infectious smile, her unwavering spirit, and her zest for life will continue to inspire those who knew her.

Funeral Arrangements

A celebration of JoAnne’s life will be held on Wednesday, May 29, 2024, from 12 p.m. to 1 p.m. at Moss Funeral Home in Cullman, Alabama. The funeral service will commence at 1 p.m., officiated by Elder Don McPherson.

Following the service, a graveside ceremony will take place at Ryan’s Creek Baptist Church Cemetery, where JoAnne will be laid to rest. Her grandsons will serve as pallbearers, honoring her memory.

Expressions of Sympathy

Those wishing to express their condolences are encouraged to attend the visitation and funeral services. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American Heart Association or to Ryan’s Creek Baptist Church.

Additional Information

• Funeral Home: Moss Funeral Home, 1901 2nd AVE North West, Cullman, AL 35055
• Cemetery: Ryan’s Creek Baptist Church Cemetery, 24849 County Rd 222, Bremen, Alabama
• Obituary submitted by: Moss Funeral Home