Delouise Ann Bates,68, was born in Leighton, Alabama to Andrew and Maddie Bates on February 1, 1952. Lo arrived on this earth during the winter season, although it was the coldest time of the year, the climate was warmed by the tenderness of her heart. She had a curious spirit, but it didn't alter her love for life and people.

The Bates family migrated to Kansas City, Missouri where Delouise attended Kansas City Public Schools. Lo understood the importance of merging academics with everyday living to develop necessary survival tools. After school, she began to work for various factories as a packer.

Years later, she became the proud mother of two sons: William and Tyrone. Lo loved her family and they loved her. As Tyrone would said, "My mom was the first lady that I every fell in love with and I could never fall out of love with her." Together they shared a special bond that life's circumstances could not break. Delouise would talk about her family and grandchildren with so much tender love and care, especially Tiauna who resided with her. Her love extended beyond family and friends. On December 10, 1983, Delouise Ann Bates married her dear friend Robert Sims. They took their marriage vows seriously, "death do us part." Robert and Delouise Sims were devoted to each other until he transitioned from this life.

Lo experienced many trials which she could not bear alone so she called on the Name of Jesus and was baptized on July 31, 2005 at Roswell Church of Christ. Lo began to cultivate her relationship with God. The more she recognized He was the source of her strength the more she read her daily word and earnestly prayed. Her faith increase immensely.

Delouise had a caring spirit, humble soul, and an awesome sense of humor. Her love for others was undeniable. As her only brother would say, "I could do no wrong by my sister; she loved me unconditionally and I still love her." Lo's love was captured in her honesty, loyalty, and consistency. Family members knew that on any special occasions they were going to receive a card, letter, photo, or gag gift to place a smile on their faces. Her humor was so subtle that if you didn't know her you would have missed it. After you understood what was said, you would start laughing, then say "really, Lo."

In 2010, Delouise was diagnosed with cancer. Years of continuous fight, she didn't complain or grow bitter. Lo fought courageously as she strengthened herself in the Word. God was teaching her how to endure hardness as a soldier and she learned how to go through graciously. She was surrounded by family members during her transition on September 1, 2020. Lo will be missed, but not forgotten. As her great-niece said, "Daddy, you can always tell her you Love Her if God puts it in your brain."

Delouise Ann Sims aka Delores Ann Sims held various roles: daughter, sister, mother, grandmother, auntie, niece, cousin, and friend. She leaves to cherish her precious memories: son: Tyrone Bates; grandchildren: William Bates, Jr.; Trevon Bates, and Tiauna Bates, sister: Joyce Carter; brother: Andrew Bates; sister-in-law: Annetta Ford; uncle: Clemon Carter; nephews, nieces, great-nephews, great-nieces, cousins, and friends.

Preceded her death: parents: Andrew and Maddie Bates; sister: Ida "Diane" Pruitt; husband: Robert Lee Sims; son: William Bates, Sr.; grandson: Tyrone Bates, Jr.

Graveside services held on Tuesday, September 8, 2020, 10:00 am at Forest Hill Cemetery. Service conducted by Duane E. Harvey Funeral Directors. Condolences may be shared on our website.