Jackson Scott Bates

BATES, Jackson Scott Bates entered into the presence of Jesus on October 26, 2020, at the age of 12 after a two-year battle with diffuse midline glioma. Jackson is survived by his parents, Virginia and Eric Bates; his younger brother, Parker Bates; his grandparents, Bronwyn and James Addicks, Julene and Claude Franklin, and Pat and Kurt Nelson; as well as many beloved aunts, uncles, cousins, great aunts, and a great uncle. He is preceded in death by his grandfather, Bruce Bates. Before his cancer diagnosis, Jackson was like any other boykind, mischievous, playful, forgetful, curious, naughty, helpful, outgoing, and everything else that would describe a child his age. He loved being outside, he liked to ride his bike and swim, and he crossed the bridge to go from being a Cub Scout to a Boy Scout. He loved animals of all kinds, both real and stuffed. He also enjoyed school, especially math and science. He had found a passion for acting and performing after having a small part in a school play and taking dance lessons. When Jackson was diagnosed with cancer at the age of 10, his life changed. Hospital visits, treatments, and changes in what he was able to physically do became a part of his everyday life. What didn't change was his spirit. Throughout his cancer journey, he maintained a sense of humor, a positive attitude, and an outpouring of love and selflessness. In the midst of his cancer journey, Jackson did experience a very significant heart change. In June of 2019 after a few weeks of conversations prompted by questions from Jackson about "everlasting life" and "heaven," Jackson prayed to invite Jesus Christ into his life as his Savior! He was then baptized on June 16, 2019, at Grace Bible Church. This past summer, Jackson told his palliative care team that he no longer wanted to receive treatment or take any action to prolong his life. Knowing his time was limited, Jackson's family made the most of however long he had left. His last days overflowed with love. He celebrated his 12th birthday in August and an early Christmas in October. Jackson's bravery and strong heart will live on to inspire others facing childhood cancer. His grandmother, Julene, founded the Jackson Scott Bates Foundation to provide capes to children undergoing cancer treatment with the goal of encouraging and empowering them to embody the qualities of a superhero. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating or sponsoring a family by visiting www.thejacksonscottbatesfoundation.org . A celebration of life for Jackson will take place at 1 p.m. CT on Saturday, November 7, at Grace Bible Church in Dallas. Friends and family may also watch the service live at: https://livestream.com/accounts/23169952/events/6961783