Opal Alice Johnson Bates

Opal Alice Johnson Bates, a proud native of Chicago, IL, graced the world with her presence on June 11, 1932. Born to the late Bernice Richardson and John Adams, she embarked on a journey of faith and resilience from a tender age. In Rosedale, Mississippi, under the loving care of her paternal grandparents following her mother's early passing, she found solace and embraced the teachings of Jesus Christ.

Returning to her roots in Chicago, Opal pursued her education and graduated from Dunbar Vocational School. In 1947, she found love and companionship in Louis Harvard Johnson from Pulaski, IL. Their union was blessed with four children: Patricia Harris (Cozell), Louis Havard Johnson II (Patricia), Anthony Tyrone Johnson (Deceased), and Michael Pierre Johnson (Deceased). Together, Opal and Louis reaffirmed their faith by embracing Catholicism at St. Anselm’s Catholic Church in 1953, a commitment that shaped their lives until their earthly departure.

In 1968, Opal's journey took another beautiful turn when she married Bernie A. Bates. Their partnership was a testament to love, adventure, and shared values, which included a strong commitment to family, faith, and community service. Together, they traversed the globe, indulging in fishing expeditions, nurturing gardens, and hosting cherished gatherings for loved ones in their Orlando, FL residence. Their dedication to their faith was unwavering, as active parishioners at Our Lady Gate of Heaven Church in Chicago, IL, and Holy Redeemer Catholic Church and Holy Cross Catholic Church in Orlando, FL.

Opal's heart swelled with pride at the achievements of her seven grandchildren: (Ret. Major) Alan R. Singleton II (Jade), Lanise Howard Johnson, Opal Townsend, Antionette Mack (Derek), Louis Havard Johnson III, Arias Johnson, and Michelle Johnson (granddaughter and adopted daughter). She delighted in the company of her seven great-grandchildren: Dr. Edahlia Singleton, Jakorey Curry, Skyi Howard, John Townsend, Hollywood Johnson, Louis Havard Johnson IV, and Alana Singleton, showering them with love and wisdom.

Opal also had a host of godchildren, cousins, nieces, nephews, and dear friends in Chicago, IL, Orlando, FL, Richmond Hill, GA, and Pooler, GA.

Opal's legacy is etched in her tireless business ventures and community service. From leading the Parent Teacher Association to mentoring youth through modeling and charm lessons, Opal's impact resonated far and wide. A serial entrepreneur, her ventures included Opal’s House of Charm and Modeling, a successful cosmetic line, fashion boutiques, real estate and insurance firms, jewelry line, and authorship of "Elegancy," a best-selling book on etiquette and poems.

In her sixties, Opal embraced a new journey of personal development, venturing into academia with determination. In 1999, she achieved a significant milestone by earning a Bachelor of Science Degree in Management and Marketing from Florida Metropolitan University, where she graduated with honors, earning the distinction of cum laude.

Her steadfast commitment to education and relentless pursuit of knowledge defined her legacy. In honoring her wishes, her family established a generational wealth fund for her great-grandchildren.

On February 20, 2024, the Lord said "come home unto me and rest, for you have served your time on earth." While her physical presence will be missed, her legacy of faith, resilience, words of wisdom and love will endure in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing her.