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James Louis Bates, 85, of Panama City, died June 19, 2008 in his home. He was born October 15, 1922 in Sharkey County, Mississippi to James Franklin and Ivy Adella Furr Bates. He had been a resident of Panama City since 1957, moving here from Orlando, Florida. Retiring as Major from the United States Air Force, he piloted B-17's in World War II and was wounded over Anzio, Italy in 1943. He served in the strategic air command flying B-47's from which he retired in 1960. He also served during the Korean War. He later was employed by WJHG for 22 years. He was a member of the St. Andrew United Methodist Church, where he was a member of the Choir and the Men's Club. He was also a member of the St Andrew Bay Power Squadron, the United States Power Squadron and the Reserve Officers Association. He was preceded in death by his wife, Venice Gainous Bates, two sons, Robert E. Bates and Richard L. Bates and a sister, Helen Giadrosich. He is survived by 4 children, Jimmie Bates Ashlock, Sara P. Bates, Charles F. Bates, and John D. Bates, 3 step-children, Robert L. Gainous, Susan D. Davis, Venice E. Russell, 3 brothers, Jerry F. Bates, Charles K. Bates, Robert W. Bates, sister, Hazel McDonald, 12 grandchildren, 11 great grandchildren and 4 great great grandchildren. Funeral services will be held at 10 a.m. on Monday at the St. Andrew United Methodist Church with Rev. Chris Cook officiating with full military honors. There will be no graveside services held. The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Sunday from 4 to 6 p.m.