Obituary of Savannah Jean Bates

Savannah Jean Bates, 6 month old precious daughter of Jeremy Paul and Susan Ann Mizzell Bates, passed away Thursday, March 23, 2023 at the Augusta University Medical Center.

Savannah was born to Susan Bates and Jeremy Bates at Augusta University Children's hospital. She was loved by many and she touched the harts of many people. 

Savannah is survived by Susan Bates (mother) Jeremy Bates (father) Rhonda Brown, Kim Bailey, Patty Brown, Helen Brown, Steve Murphy, Charlie Campbell, Cathy Ayers, David Ayers, Troy Mizzell, and many many cousins.

She had many helpers and supporters along the way from NICU nurses and doctors to PICU nurses and doctors. Like Mrs. Hope for speech and Mr. Stephen for therapy. NICU and PICU parents that we met Mr. And Mrs. Christa Dickert. 

"A rainbow cannot occur without reflection through the water caused by a storm. Savannah's precious life provided so many moments of reflection for the family, doctors, nurses and staff that cared for her. Savannah taught many lessons to great minds but her greatest purpose was to give her mama and daddy hope. The Bible tells us that the radiance that glows from a rainbow is similar to that of the glory of God and Savannah's life radiated His hope and glorified Him in each precious moment.

 Savannah's life was far too short, but despite her 6 short months, she was used by God to remind our hearts of the promises God gives. 

We prayed for strength, for peace and for healing and because of Savannah's life so many witnessed the promises of God. 

Through the bending of the colors that shone through each storm filled moment, God shared His love, strength, peace and complete healing for Savannah. While we were hopeful that her healing would be here, with her family, we rejoice that she is pain free and held by the arms of Jesus today. 

We remain focused on prayers of strength, peace and healing for her mama and daddy as God walks them through the darkest storm clouds. But, just as we witnessed Savannah peacefully at rest with a strength to fight far beyond her human ability, we know that God will also heal the hearts of all that are grieving the passing of Savannah. 

We stand in the storm alongside her faithful parents and lift their names to the Lord. We rejoice for every moment of Savannah's life, and thank God for what He has done in and through the hearts that love her.

As the appearance of the rainbow in the clouds on a rainy day, so was the appearance of the surrounding radiance. Such was the appearance of the likeness of the glory of the Lord. And when I saw it, I fell on my face and heard a voice speaking. Ezekiel 1:28

Mr and Mrs Dickert- Even though we didn’t meet Savannah, we loved her and her family. We will never forget how hard she fought and how much she impacted the people surrounding her. Savannah gave us the gift of watching a mother love so deeply and a community embrace them. We are forever changed by the life of Savannah.

Mrs Hope-I only had the pleasure of working with Savannah and Susan for a short time (2 months) before Savannah was admitted. But Savannah's bright eyes and smile will not be forgotten. The joy Savannah shared was enough to turn a hard day into a better one. Susan's love for Savannah is/was evident. She would move mountains for her girl. Thank you for trusting in me to help Savannah while I could.

Aunt Patty-A beautiful little girl who was taken from us too soon. Savannah had the brightness beautiful big blue eyes that would like up your day. The rosy little pink tongue I knew she darting it out like yeah I run this show and she did. She was always throwing hands which showed us how much of a fighter she was. She fought the longest battle a baby should never have to fight, but she did it with so much strength. Savannahs short life forever changed mine. I will never forget my beautiful niece and how much strength and love she brought to Susan, Jeremy, and all the other lives she touched. When times are rough I will always think about how hard Savannah fought and I hope I fight at least half as hard. Our beautiful angel who we know would have changed the world. We will always love you Savannah and we will never forget you. 

She is followed in death by Sharon Bailey, James Mizzell, Joyce Jones. James Hamlin

The Historic George Funeral Homes and Cremation Center, 211 Park Ave SW, Aiken, SC 29801 (803) 649-6234 has charge of arrangements. 

Online expressions of sympathy for the family may be left by visiting www.georgefuneralhomes.com