Mr. William Vance “Van” Bateman, 62, passed away on Tuesday, July 17, 2018, at the Mississippi State Veteran’s Hospital Community Living Center in Jackson, MS. Visitation will be held at 11:00 A.M. on Saturday, July 21st, at Middleton United Methodist Church, with a graveside service to follow at 12:00 noon, at Middleton Cemetery. Porter Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.
Van was born on October 2, 1955, in Detroit, Michigan. He was a 1973 graduate of Nanih Waiya High School, and then served in the U. S. Navy during the Vietnam War. While he intended to make service in the Navy a life-long career, his service was cut short by a medical disability. His love for God, country, and family were displayed daily in his words and acts of kindness. He loved boating, fishing, and all sports. He was preceded in death by his parents, Donna and William Thomas Bateman.
He is survived by three sisters, Linda (Roger) Wiggins of Louisville, Nancy (Larry) Luke and Terri Bateman, both of Brandon, MS; a brother, Tommy Bateman of Brandon; nieces and nephews, John (Kathryn) Wiggins, Catherine Wiggins, Katie Luke, Hannah Luke, Carley Luke, and Courtney Moseley(Ryan Callier); and great niece and nephews, Harris and Web Wiggins, and Elowyn Callier.
The family extends heartfelt appreciation to the staff at the VA hospital, especially Dr. Peel and staff on the ground floors where he resided for the past 23 years. Their genuine love, care, and concern were always evident and will be forever appreciated and remembered.
Memorials may be made to Middleton United Methodist Church or the Christian Charities of Africa.
