Jordan Bates
Jordan Maree Bates, 28, of Byesville, left us far too soon on Thursday, October 2, 2025. She was born in Zanesville on June 18, 1997, and, in her short time here, she filled our lives with laughter, eye rolls, warmth, and more sarcasm than most people manage in a lifetime.
Jordan was unapologetically herself—kindhearted, strong-willed, and quick-witted. She loved her children, her family, reading, and leaving a trail wherever she went. She could make a room light up with her beautiful smile… or fall silent with a perfectly timed side-eye. She was the type of person who gave her whole heart, even if she pretended not to sometimes.
She is survived by her mother, Jennifer Bates of Byesville; her son, Evan Joseph; daughter, Tommi Cherylynn; maternal grandparents, Cheri Evans of Byesville, Allen Bates (Dea) of Burlington, IA; great-grandmother, Gerry Evans of Byesville; two aunts, Julie Griffith, Byesville, and Jodi (Brian) Starr, Salesville; cousins, Tye and Kage Griffith, Jett and Jake Starr, and Samantha Bright; her great-aunt, Stacy (Charlie) Bright; and great-uncle, Scot Evans. All of whom will forever miss her laughter, hugs, those unexpected shenanigans, and expected arguments.
She now joins her beloved son, Alten Tommy-Wade Bates, in heaven. We imagine the two of them together, singing “Twinkle Twinkle Little Star,” blowing raspberries, and filling eternity with their own joyful mischief. Also preceding Jordan in death is her great-grandfather, Tommy Evans; and step-father, Rick Lambert.
With Jordan’s passing, our family’s five-generation chain is tenderly broken, yet her place in it will forever be cherished.
While our hearts ache, we are thankful for every moment she gave us—every laugh, every scare, every sarcastic comment. Her life, though brief, was full of love and light, and she leaves behind a legacy that will not be dimmed.
A celebration of her life will be held on Sunday (October 5, 2025) from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. at Black-Epperson Funeral Home, Byesville, with services to follow at 6 p.m. Friends and family are invited to share stories, laughter, and love in her honor—because she would expect nothing less.
In lieu of flowers, please hug your children a little tighter.
Personal condolences may be sent to the family by visiting www.black-eppersonfuneralhomes.com
