Bringing Up Bates star Kelly Jo Bates is known for her heartwarming messages to her kids and grandkids online. She would often create lengthy messages, gushing over their personalities and naming the things she loved the most about them.
However, many were surprised when Katie showed full support to Jackson’s wife, Emerson, who barely appears on social media. She’s currently raising her first child with Jackson, and many are curious about how she’s doing. Keep reading to see her pics.
‘Bringing Up Bates‘: Jackson & Emerson Bates Keep Things Private About First Baby
Jackson and Emerson are not as active on social media as the other married couples in the family. Jackson last posted in January, and it was about his construction business, Jackbuiltllc. The Bringing Up Bates stars welcomed their first in July 2025. The two kept their parenting lives private, though Kelly Jo would occasionally share positive updates about them. It was reported that Jackson and Emerson welcomed a baby boy named David Ezekiel Bates. But amid their social media silence, many were surprised when Kelly Jo shared new photos of her daughter-in-law, Emerson.

Jackson Bates – Emerson Bates – Instagram
Jackson’s Wife Resurfaces In Rare Pic
Kelly Jo recently took to IG to share rare photos of Emerson, who’s celebrating her 23rd birthday.
According to the Bringing Up Bates star, Emerson’s name stands for “Child of Emery,” which also stands for powerful, industrious, and ruler. Kelly Jo gushed over Emerson’s second name, “Hope.” She wrote, “Your middle name “Hope” is probably one of my absolute favorite names because of the hope we have in Christ. It’s a name that offers courage, strength, & positive expectation.”

Jackson Bates – Emerson Bates – Instagram
One of the photos shows Emerson wearing a short top, nearly revealing her tummy. It’s no secret that Emerson is among the daughters-in-law who don’t strictly follow the Bates family’s dress codes. Regardless, it’s clear that Kelly Jo fully supports her decision. Emerson and Jackson are currently in Florida. Despite their distance, Kelly Jo assures the couple that they’re always on her mind.
“I don’t get to Florida to visit nearly as often as I’d like, but you’re constantly in my thoughts & prayers and I continually thank God for joining you to our lives! I hope you have the best birthday ever; we love you!” she wrote. Emerson also responded to Kelly Jo’s post using her private IG profile, saying, “Thank you so much!!! Your words are too kind!🤎” Many fans also wished Emerson a happy birthday, while others can’t help but point out how beautiful she is.
- “Beautiful pictures Happy Birthday Beautiful Emerson.”
- “Super model 😍”
- “Beautiful couple, beautiful pics!!!”
- “Y’all have models for children 👏🥹 – Happy Birthday🌸 🥳”




