IN MEMORY
Kelly Bates, Commerce Lexington Ambassador
A celebration of life memorial for longtime Commerce Lexington staffer, Kelly Bates, was held in late February. A bright light in Lexington’s business community, Commerce Lexington announced her passing after a lengthy battle with cancer.
“For nearly 15 years, Kelly was an integral part of our account executive team, which was highly regarded and recognized as one of the top chamber sales teams in Kentucky and the nation. Her extensive background in the hospitality industry prior to her time at Commerce Lexington was instrumental to the excellent customer service she provided to our members.
In 2017, she received a Lifetime Sales Achievement Award from the Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives (ACCE). Kelly later took on management of the Commerce Lexington Ambassador Committee, a group of volunteers that serves as a liaison between Commerce Lexington and its membership.
Commerce Lexington Inc. President and CEO, Bob Quick, said, “We will miss Kelly very much at our office, and I know many others in the community will too. Her smile was infectious, and her hard work certainly made us better as an organization. Despite her recent health challenges, she always had a positive outlook and a sharp sense of humor. During this difficult time, we would like to express our condolences to her husband, Dann Bates, her children, Bryce and Karsyn, and all who love Kelly.”
This time last year, Bates wished for everyone an Irish blessing,
“May the sun shine all day long
Everything go right
And nothing wrong.
May those you love
Bring love back to you
And may all the wishes
You wish come true.”
This article also appears on page 5 of the March 2024 print edition of the Hamburg Journal.
