Joel Ray (Joe) Ates, 88 was welcomed to Glory on September 6, 2024 at Veterans Affair Nursing Home in Collins, MS. Joe was born on Thursday, August 27, 1936 in Magee, Mississippi to Elmer and Hattie Rae Ates. He served in the US Navy for 3(+) years.

He was united in marriage to Janice Duty in Greenville, MS on July 26, 1969. Joe has 3 daughters Lynn Durkin, Vickie and Susan. Joe and Janice have one daughter Talina Ladd. Joe (Fuzz Buster) was a truck driver for 70 years. He enjoyed cattle, horses, and working the land. He loved getting on his tractor and being in the pasture. It gave him pleasure and peace. He was a beloved husband, father, brother, papaw, and uncle who enjoyed spending time with his family. Joe always said what he meant and meant what he said. Joe Ates was a true man amongst men and will truly be missed.

Visitation will be held on Monday, September 9, 2024 from 5:00 P.M. until 8:00 P.M. at Colonial Chapel Funeral Home of Magee. Visitation will be held on Tuesday, September 10, 2024 from 10:00 A.M. to 11:00 A.M. at Coat Baptist Church. Funeral services will be held on Tuesday, September 10, 2024 at 11:00 A.M. at Coats Baptist Church. Burial will follow in Sharon Presbyterian Church Cemetery in Magee, Mississippi. Bro. Bill Blair will officiate. Colonial Chapel Funeral Home of Magee is in charge of arrangements. 601-849-5031

He was preceded in death by his parents, Elmer and Hattie Rae Ates. He leaves to cherish his many memories his wife Janice of Magee, MS; daughters, Talina Ladd of Bowling Green, KY, Lynn Duncan of Magee, MS, Vickie (Ates) of Tulsa, OK, Susan (Ates) Raleigh, NC, and sister, Doris Jones of Grove, OK; grandchildren, Chad Propst, Ashley Ladd, and Alysha Beale, and Katie Walman; great-grandchildren, Thea and Knox Propst, Brantley Beale, Amiliyah Mallony, Jace Ladd, and a host of many other relatives and friends.

An online guestbook may be signed at www.colonialchapelmageemendenhall.com