James Simon Bates, 63, of Richmond, departed this life November 6, 2021. He was preceded in death by his parents, Alfred W. Bates, Jr. and Ida Woodard Bates; sister, Alfreda Bates and brother, Christopher Bates. Surviving are his sister, Ida B. Witherspoon (Ronald, Sr.); three brothers, Alfred Bates, III (Pamela) of Suffolk, Charles Bates (Vanessa) of Marysville, Ohio and Richard Bates (Faye); daughter, Jametra Copeland of Norfolk; two aunts, nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. Remains rest at Scott's Funeral Home, 115 E. Brookland Park Blvd. where viewing will be held 11 a.m. until 5 p.m. Sunday, November 14. Graveside services will be held 11 a.m. Monday, November 15 at Roselawn Memory Gardens.