Jean Marie Bates

Jean Marie Bates, 87, of Coventry, RI passed away peacefully in her sleep on Wednesday, April 29, 2020. She was born February 12th, 1933 in Bowling Green, VA to Elezar & Annie Farmer. She was the second youngest of their 13 children. Jean was the mother of three: Debbie, who predeceased her in 2000, James and Frank. She is survived by her son Frank Bates and spouse Tracy, and their children Alex & Hunter of Charlotte, NC; granddaughters Jessie Schilens, Shannon McHale and Kirah Kirk, as well as six great-grandchildren. Jean was raised in Bowling Green, where she graduated Caroline High School. She then set out to explore the world, always looking to find new adventures. After a career raising three kids, Jean found her calling in 1983 when she opened JB’s Sandwich Shoppe in Narragansett, RI. Through this experience she was able to share her creative side with her unique deli recipes. She loved being an entrepreneur as well as a mentor to those who worked with her over the years. Jean will be remembered for her fun witty sense of humor, her great cooking and her never ending desire to right the wrongs of the world. She was deeply committed to her beliefs and fought hard to make changes where she found injustice. Services will be private.