Barbara Louise Bates, 85, of Wichita, KS, passed away Wednesday, November 5, 2025 in her home of over 50 years. She was born February 13, 1940 in Wichita, KS, the daughter of Maurice and Louise Jackson.

She is survived by her husband Stephen Bates and sister Diane Stivers; children Chris and Amy McNitt, Erik Bates; one nephew and one niece; and grandchildren, Tiffany McNitt, Jesse McNitt, Andrew Schrader, David Schrader and his wife Bailey Schrader, Madison Jordan, Zachary and Rylee Burdick; as well as five great-grandchildren and another on the way; and her cherished dogs Lucy and Linus.

Barbara's life mission was to love and take care of those around her. She raised children with her daycare services and was always surrounded by family. Her life was spent dancing in competitions with her husband, giving treats to her dogs, and fishing with her grandchildren.

Barbara will be known as a loving and caring mom, memaw, and great-memaw

Her celebration of life is to be announced.