A Southern Lady With A Heart For Children
Elfie Bates: A Southern Lady With A Heart For Children
The Story of Elfie Bate’s life is not just rags to riches but a journey of a soft-spoken, southern lady who lived a Christian life and made a difference in the lives of people she encountered along the way.
Ms. Bates was born May 27, 1936 in Arkansas, the daughter of the late Burlie and Vessis (Lemmons) Bates.
She graduated salutatorian from Pocahontas High School in 1955 and moved to Michigan to start her 45-year career at Pioneer State Mutual Insurance Company in Flint.
She poured herself into her work and church family, as well as taking care of her mother.
People who worked alongside her described her as dedicated, active, generous, kind, compassionate, unselfish, gentle, and faithful.
Ben Porter, a friend of Ms. Bates and a minister of the Davison Church of Christ in Michigan, says this about Elfie.
“She was an active member of the Davison congregation, but her activity wasn’t an upfront type, and she didn’t desire attention in that way. Quiet and shy, but oh my, what an influence this lady had and is continuing to have still today and for so many years to come, even in her death.”
Having never married or never having children of her own, she also wanted to make a difference in the lives of children, so she chose to donate a portion of her estate to Children’s Homes, Inc.
Micah Brinkley, executive director of Children’s Homes, said, “We are very grateful for the generosity of Ms. Bates and her desire to help provide a home for God’s children even after she passed on from her earthly life. Children for many years to come will reap the benefits of her giving spirit.”
Jan Albrough, another friend, summed up Ms. Bates’ life the best when she wrote: “I am proud of Elfie for the legacy she left and proud to call her my friend. God says, ‘Well done, Elfie! Well Done!’”