Jennell McCroan Bates

November 30, 1939 - March 11, 2022

Jennell McCroan Bates, 82, of Cypress was granted her angel wings with her loving family and friends by her side, at home, Friday, March 11, 2022. She retired from Florida State Hospital as a Direct Care Supervisor in the early 1990's. Ms. Bates dedicated her life caring for her family. She was a devoted FSU fan and enjoyed camping with the horse riding group for years. Jennell also enjoyed shopping and was an excellent baker (everyone loved her coconut cakes) however, most of all she enjoyed fishing. She loved the outdoors and loved living on the lake in her later years. In her early years, she devoted many days teaching children how to swim at Blue Springs. Jennell was a member of the Sneads Rose Carlisle Garden Club and a long time member of Cypress Baptist Church. She always had a smile on her face and embraced everyone with kindness. She was preceded in death by her parents, Tillman and Inez McCroan; brothers, Henry McCroan and Buddy McCroan. Jennell is survived by her loving daughter, Diann Neel (Sean); brother, William McCroan (Debbie) and sister-in-law, Jackie McCroan; grandchildren, Jessica Chavers (Stephan), Matt Neel (Emily) and Hunter Neel (Brittny) and five great-grandchildren; several nieces and nephews and special friend, Horace Mears. The family is grateful for the exemplary kindness and compassion received from Bainbridge Kindred Hospice. Also special thanks to Dr. Joe Gay and staff for their wisdom, care and love shown to her for many years. Funeral services will be at 2 PM(CDT) Monday, March 14, 2022 at Sneads Assembly of God with Revs. Juno Douglas & Emory Smith officiating. Interment will follow in Cypress Cemetery with James & Sikes Funeral Home Maddox Chapel directing. The family will receive friends Monday at 1 PM CDT, one hour prior to service, at Sneads Assembly of God Church. Serving as pallbearers will be Bob Basford, Howard Johnson, Stephan Chavers, Matt Neel, Hunter Neel, Bryan Owens, Shannon Neel and Marion McCroan. Honorary will be the Sneads Rose Carlisle Garden Club.