Candra Joyce "Candy" Bates

Candra Joyce Bates (Candy)

A Life of Unwavering Love and Faith

On October 21, 2024, at 8:55 a.m., the world lost a soul who brought warmth, faith, and kindness into the lives of everyone she met. Candy was born on March 23, 1972, at Fort Bragg, North Carolina, while her father, John Schlottmann, was serving in the U.S. Army. Raised in a home that valued loyalty, family, and resilience, Candy embraced life with a spirit of love, gentleness, and unwavering faith that left an indelible mark on all who knew her.

Candy was a soul marked by deep faith, gentle kindness, and an incredible ability to make others feel loved. Although life was not always easy for her, she found joy in the small, meaningful moments—moments that left lasting impressions on those around her. Her life was shaped by a profound love of family, faith, and the simple, beautiful things that many take for granted.

She adored ladybugs and cats—symbols of the care she extended not only to animals but also to the people around her. Candy had a deep love for nature, especially for ladybugs, which she saw as symbols of simplicity and beauty. Her cats were her constant companions, offering her comfort and joy throughout the years. These simple pleasures reflected her humility and her deep appreciation for the world around her.

Those who knew her, describe Candy as sweet, kindhearted, and compassionate, with an unwavering faith in God. Whether it was family or friends, Candy always had an open heart for others. She was known for her steadfast devotion to the people she loved and the faith that guided her. She could listen to others, encourage them, and offer the right words when they needed them the most.

She is survived by her loving husband, Michael Bates; her brother, Brian Schlottmann; her sister, Krystal Murray; her brother, Daniel Schlottmann; and her extended family, including cousins, nieces, nephews, and countless friends whose lives she touched. She joins her parents, Teresa Schlottmann and John Schlottmann, in eternal peace.

Candy's faith was the foundation of her life. Her friends and family describe her as steadfast, devoted to Jesus, and someone who spoke of her beliefs boldly and with conviction. Her love for God radiated through her every word and action. She lived a life of selflessness, always caring for others and never hesitating to offer words of encouragement or prayers.

In her final chapter, Candy fought a brave battle with illness, and while her physical body has left us, her spirit and the love she spread remain with us forever. Her strength was boundless, her laughter infectious, and her heart, unyielding. As we reflect on her life, we are reminded of the lessons she taught us—about love, faith, and the beauty found in life's smallest details.

A memorial service will be held in her honor on November 2nd, 2024, at 2:00 p.m. at Macedonia Baptist Church, 1673 Villa Rica Highway, Dallas, Georgia. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to assist with funeral expenses.

Donations should be sent to Michael's uncle: Rev Terry Rainwater; PO Box 805; Hogansville, GA 30230.

Candy may no longer be with us in body, but her soul continues to shine brightly, a testament to the love and faith she carried with her every day of her life.