Denham Springs, LA - Elizabeth McLaughlin Bates, beloved mother, grandmother, and friend, passed away peacefully on May 2, 2026, at the age of 90. She was born in Gilbert, Louisiana on September 18, 1935, and was a long time resident of Greenwell Springs, Louisiana. She enjoyed gardening and spending time with her family and friends. She was a long time member of Goodwood Blvd Church of Christ. Elizabeth was preceded in death by her husband Leroy Bates and their son, James Leroy Bates, her parents, James McLaughlin and Jessie Mae Murphy, and siblings, Betty Williams and Kathleen Murphy.

She is survived by her son Mark Andrew Bates and his wife Kelly Jeffries Bates, grandchildren Kristen Bates White and husband Mackie White, Shelby Bates Berry and husband Bryan Berry, Amanda Denning Smith and husband David Smith, Alexander Jeffries Goodwyne and wife Jessica "Bay" Masters Goodwyne, and seven great-grandchildren.

Visitation will be held at Greenoaks Funeral Home & Memorial Park, 9595 Florida Blvd, Baton Rouge, on Monday, May 11, 2026, from 12:00 pm until services at 2:00 pm. Graveside services to follow.