JOSEPH G. BATES, JR., 83, of Weirton WV, took his final journey to meet our Lord on Monday, September 22, 2025, at WVU Weirton Medical Center. Joseph was born on July 9, 1942, in Steubenville Ohio. He graduated from Saint Anthony’s High School in 1960. He attended West Liberty State College and also electronic schools in Philadelphia, PA and Pittsburgh, PA. His education also extended to Jefferson Technical School. During the Vietnam conflict, he successfully completed MP school becoming a military police man. His tour of service with the Army extended from 1964 through 1966. Upon completion of service, he was employed at Channel 9-WSTV as a projectionist, audio director and also cameraman for 11 years. He was married for 56 years to Darlene (Taylor) Bates where they met at Channel 9-WSTV. His greatest blessing was the birth of his son Joseph G. Bates, III and his three grandchildren, the love of his life, grandson, Mason and wife Alyssa of Saint Augustine, Florida, one granddaughter, Peyton Taylor Bates of Washington, DC, and grandson, Camden Joseph Bates of Washington, DC; also his fur babies and grandpups, Banjo, Jack, and Cash. He is also survived by one sister, Carole Zaninelli of Follansbee, WV, along with two nieces, Melanie and Melissa Zaninelli; one great nephew, Brax Ware; and one great niece, Mila Ware. Among his many passions, coaching his son in sports and other young children was among the top of his list. His greatest accomplishment was participating in the completion of the wall of fame for the athletes at Weir High School where he was a booster president from 1988 through 1989. He retired from Weirton Steel Corporation after being employed 37 years. He worked in the Mason department. He is preceded in death by his parents Joseph G. Bates, Sr and Ida (DeSantis) Bates along with his in-laws, Nedra Taylor and C.R. Taylor. Also preceding him in death are two brothers-in-law, Robert Greg Taylor and David Zaninelli. There was no visitation. A private service was held at the convenience of the family. Arrangements by Mullenbach Funeral Home, Follensbee. Condolences may be left at www.mullenbachfh.com.