Ralph Bernard Bates transitioned August 2, 2022.

On September 2, 1943 in Washington, DC a son Ralph Bernard Bates was born to Henry and Margaret Bates. Ralph, affectionately known by family and friends as "Tony", "Pop Pop", "T-one", and :Love" by his wife, was devoted to his family. He married the love of his life, Vera on July 8, 2002. They have been married for 20 years. From their blessed union Two daughters, Two sons and Three step-daughters were born. Family meant everything to him. He was loving, caring, thoughtful, frugal, and a true jokester. He attended Bike club meetings and family events. Ralph was mostly proud of riding his motorcycles from state to state with his wife, Vera.

He was very passionate about his motorcycles and the things in his garage. During his spare time, he enjoyed doing whatever he wanted, when he wanted, and how he wanted. He also enjoyed watching classic western films.

Ralph served 4 years in the US Military. He also was a formal correctional officer who loved to give back to his community through his outreach program Community Bridge, that helped returning citizens transition back to society with Job training, and Job placement.

Ralph will be remembered for his affection, compassion, and respect for his wife, Vera. He will be remembered as a loving, and a caring person by his family and friends. Ralph was also a die hard Dallas Cowboys fan!

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, Henry Wilbur Bates Jr., (Amanda); and brother-in-law Theodore Dyson; sister-in-law Sharon Dyson. Ralph leaves to cherish a loving and devoted wife Vera "Shorty" Bates; two sons, Anthony and Timothy Bates; two daughters Alicia and Bridget Bates; three step-daughters Verna Jones, Phyllis Wright and Leticia Fitzhugh; son-in-law Brian Fitzhugh; brothers and sisters; brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law; grandchildren, great-grandchildren and a host of nieces, nephews, and great nieces and nephews, relatives and friends.

Friends may visit with the family Saturday, August 13 from 1:00pm until time of service 2:00pm at Thornton Funeral Home Chapel, 3439 Livingston Road Indian Head, MD 20640.0