Bringing Up Bates star Kelly Jo Bates returns online with an emotional post for her late mother, Betty. It has been a roller coaster year for the Bates family. Papa Bill passed away on May 13, 2025, breaking the hearts of many. Despite the emotions, Kelly Jo and Gil continue to keep their family strong and positive. Kelly Jo even took to social media to share her tribute to her late mother, which includes some never-before-seen photos and facts about Betty. Keep reading to see Kelly Jo’s post.
Bringing Up Bates: Kelly Jo Bates Mourns Mother In Beautiful Tribute
Kelly Jo recently shared Instagram Stories featuring photos of her late mother, Betty. According to the Bringing Up Bates star, her mother is supposed to turn 83 today. Betty died 3 years ago. The cause of death was never revealed, but many fans learned about her passing due to an obituary online.
Kelly Jo Bates-Instagram
Kelly Jo later shared a photo of Betty when she was younger, showing off a gorgeous curly hairstyle. She wrote, “She said her mom used to roll her hair in bobby pins to get these curls!”
Kelly Jo Bates-Instagram
Kelly Jo then uploaded a family picture when she was still a child. She revealed that she has six siblings, including two adopted sisters. She also wonders if her mother resembles any of her grandchildren today, gushing over her appearance and personality. Kelly Jo wrote, “She had blond hair, green eyes, & a gorgeous smile! She could sing, sew, teach, build anything, & was a great public speaker. She inspired me in so many ways!”
Kelly Jo Shares Another Celebration
In an Instagram post, Kelly Jo shared photos of Katie and Travis, who are celebrating their 4th anniversary. Kelly Jo can’t believe how quickly things changed between the married couple, from moving to Tennessee to having two children. The Bringing Up Bates star added, “There have been so many great and fun lasting memories made in each of these stages of life! I couldn’t be more proud watching the two of you together as a couple and as parents.”
Kelly Jo went on to say that Travis and Katie inspire her to set a good Christian example, and she will always be grateful for being constantly connected with them. She wrote, “And just fyi, I’m feeling extremely blessed as a mom and mother-in-law right now!”
Katie and Travis did one of the most unforgettable gifts for Kelly Jo last year. The two gifted Kelly Jo a car for Christmas, leaving her emotional. Katie and Travis are also one of the most active married couples in the Bates family, consistently making up events and hanging out with their siblings. At this point, the two are enjoying their lives in their new Tennessee home, with Travis focusing on nursing school.
