Tanner Austin Bates

Tanner's unwavering passion for the Florida Gators was a testament to his loyalty and dedication. With every cheer and every game, he wove himself into the tapestry of the sports he loved so dearly. His favorite color, orange, seemed to perfectly reflect his vibrant personality – a radiant force of positivity that illuminated the lives of everyone he encountered.

A true master of humor, Tanner's wit and comedic timing were unmatched. He had a life-long love affair with Taco Bell - especially a bean burrito with extra beans and onions, red sauce and cheese on top - and often wasted the day away binging Yellowstone and Big Sky wearing his raggedy old Arkansas Razorback tank top that Jenn would have happily lost in the laundry. His ability to find joy in the simplest of moments, to weave laughter into conversations, and to lighten the burdens of those around him was a gift that he generously shared. He was a beacon of light on the darkest of days, a source of comfort and camaraderie to friends and family alike.

Proudly graduating from Bauxite High School in 2011, he accepted a Baseball Scholarship to play short-stop at Arkansas Baptist College. After years of also playing American Legion Baseball, Tanner was beyond stoked to receive the call in 2020, asking him to return to the field and coach alongside his beloved mentor Michael Mattox. You could say Tanner was a bit passionate when watching his favorite teams. It didn’t matter the sport - if the Arkansas Razorbacks, Florida Gators, or St. Louis Cardinals were playing, you could find Tanner on the other side of the broadcast, usually pacing back and forth. Yet, he hated The Cubs.

Tanner's love for his furry companions was a testament to his nurturing soul. As a devoted dog dad, he understood the bond of unconditional love and companionship that only pets can provide. Gunner, his beloved Lab that was his rock through all the valleys, Aspen - their adorable Wheaten Terrier, and most recently Archie, their new Goldendoodle. His love extended beyond the four-legged, as he embraced the role of fiancé to Jennifer with an open heart, ready to embark on a journey of love and partnership.

Tanner had special relationships with his brother Justin and his work buddies Jacob Ball, Maddy Davidson, and Keith Kincaid. Yet, his Papaw Bates was likely his favorite person of all. He was preceded in death by his Nanny June Passion and great-grandparents John Hester, Helen Hester, Beulah Richards, Willard Richards, Sam Bates, and Gladys Bates. He is survived by a family who treasured him. His mother and stepfather, Lisa and Alan Buffington. His father and stepmother, Robert and Sandy Bates. His brother Justin Bates, and wife Brooke. His stepsisters Taylor, Bailey, and Kenzie Buffington. His stepbrothers Ty and Tanner Noel. His fiancée Jennifer Asberry. His grandparents, Robert and Doris Bates, Jackie and Susie Goodson, Joyce Buffington, and his Nam Carolyn Norris. His nephew Crew Bates. His aunts and uncles, Jerry and Tammy East, Ben Deaver, Randy and Colleen Childress, Keith Eldridge, Phyllis Ventress, and Steve and Christie Staggs. His cousins, Justin and Meredith Bull, Blake Childress, Hannah Deaver, Jake East, Hunter Deaver, and Malachi Eldridge. And so many more colleagues, friends, and relatives who loved him deeply. Tanner’s fellow Hog fans will serve as pallbearers - Taylor Appling, Jacob Ball, Randy Carson, Blake Childress, Keith Kincaid, Justin King, Briar Sample, and Jorge Vargas. Trey Landry, Chad Lawrence, and Maddy Davidson will serve as honorary pallbearers.

Tanner's prowess as an exceptional baseball player highlighted his dedication and passion. He was a true athlete in every sense of the word, leaving his mark on the field as he did in the hearts of those who knew him. But it was his enduring battle against addiction that showcased the depth of his strength. With an unyielding spirit, he faced his challenges head-on, with the unwavering support of his mother, Lisa, who stood by his side through every trial and triumph. Even through high school, she would get up before him on cold mornings to start his truck and run his bath water.

Tanner's love for disc golf, kickball, and baseball revealed his zest for life and his desire to stay active and engaged in the world around him. He valued friendly competition and the joy of teamwork, a sentiment that resonated deeply with his playful and sociable nature.

He will never be forgotten along with his boundless spirit, and his remarkable journey. Let his legacy inspire us to live our lives with the same passion, resilience, and humor that he displayed. Nobody will solace in the memories we shared and the indelible impact he had on our lives. Rest in peace, dear Tanner, your memory will forever remain etched in our hearts.