Joey Bates is a husband, father, dedicated leader, veteran, and business strategist with a passion for service, communication, and innovation. From his humble beginnings in rural America to his success in the military, business, and community leadership, Joey’s journey is defined by perseverance, purpose, and a deep commitment to helping others succeed.

Joey and his two sisters were adopted when he was three after enduring years of abuse from his birth mother, who suffered from Munchausen syndrome by proxy—the same disorder that affected Gipsy Rose’s mother. His adoption into a loving family not only changed his life but also set the foundation for his values. Overnight, his new home expanded with the addition of four more adopted children, creating a family built on love, faith, and resilience. His adoptive parents provided an unshakable example of compassion and integrity, shaping Joey into the man he is today.

Growing up in Montgomery County, Kentucky, Joey embraced the small-town values of hard work, service, and integrity, recognizing early that perseverance is the key to success. His upbringing instilled in him the unwavering belief that challenges are meant to be overcome, opportunities are meant to be seized, and true success is found in serving others.

Joey carried these lessons into building his own family, inspired by the example of his adoptive parents. On September 1, 2006, he married his wife, Meghan Bates, and together they have built a family they are incredibly proud of, raising their four children with the same values of love, faith, and resilience that shaped Joey’s own journey.

The Family That Formed the Man

Joey’s mother dedicated her career to helping others in medical and mental health treatment facilities, instilling in him a deep respect for service. His father, a Vietnam-era Marine Corps veteran (1968–1972), nurtured Joey’s adventurous spirit through his work managing movie theaters in Naples, Florida; American Samoa; and Molokai, Hawaii. It was during these years that the final member of the Bates family, Olivia Hazel Mealofaasofiafia Bates, was adopted from American Samoa, further reinforcing the family’s belief in embracing others with love and kindness.

Inspired by his father’s service and the stories of his time in the Marine Corps, Joey felt a strong calling to serve his country—a desire that intensified after the September 11th attacks. Determined to enlist as soon as possible, Joey took an accelerated academic path, leaving Montgomery County High School after two years to enroll in a Home School Program (Grace Christian Academy) with the goal of graduating early. He achieved that goal and, with his parents’ approval, shipped out to basic training in September 2004 at just 17 years old.

Joey’s journey from a childhood of adversity to a life of service, leadership, and achievement is a testament to the power of resilience, faith in Jesus, and opportunity. Whether in the military, business, or community service, his mission remains the same—to lead with purpose, uplift others, and leave a lasting impact.

Beyond business and military service, Joey is deeply involved in volunteerism and veteran advocacy. His passion for mentorship, local engagement, and community service reflects his belief in making a meaningful difference in people’s lives. Whether working with veterans, mentoring future leaders, or supporting local initiatives, Joey is dedicated to serving beyond himself.

📌 Volunteer Veteran Advocate

📌 Active Community Leader in Kentucky

📌 Supporter of Business Development & Growth