Mrs. Trena Gayle Bates' Obituary
Trena Gayle Duke Bates went home to the Lord on June 2, 2016. She died peacefully at home, surrounded by her loving family. Trena was born August 1, 1945 in Nashville, TN to Marvin and Zenia Duke, who preceded her. She is survived by husband Gene Bates; children Tommy (Debbie) Bates, and daughter Shelley (Charlie) Trotman, as well as brother Bill(Marie) Duke. She leaves eight wonderful grandchildren who were her absolute pride in Lauren, Kyle, and Amanda Bates; and Beth, Isaac,Branson, Lindsey, and Charlie Trotman.
Trena grew up in Nashville before moving to Joelton to raise her family, and later to Murfreesboro. She loved camping, especially at Cedars of Lebanon State Park and Lake Tansi until she and Gene finally retired there in 1998. During retirement she also lived for short periods in Panama City Beach, FL and Sevierville, fulfilling her and Gene's love of those vacation spots. Trena was a licensed cosmetologist, and took pride in giving her grandchildren their first haircuts. She was also gifted in floral arrangement working at Kroger for several years. Her love of crafting and floral arrangement flourished during her retirement.
While cancer may have taken her life, it never dampened her spirits. She was a fighter until the end. The family would like to thank the staff of Avalon Hospice, especially nurses Shirley and Ashley, hospice aid Natasha, and Social worker Kim for the wonderful and loving care they provided. Also, a special thanks to Gene's sisters Carolyn and Sandra for their daily visits.
Visitation will be Sunday June 5, 2016 from 2PM until 5PM, with Memorial service immediately following, at Springhill Funeral Home, 5110 Gallatin Road, Nashville, TN 37216.
What’s your fondest memory of Trena?
What’s a lesson you learned from Trena?
Share a story where Trena's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Trena you’ll never forget.
How did Trena make you smile?