Dedication to Mom

This Academy and the tremendous success its had over the 2 years in Stockbridge is dedicated in loving memory to Margie C. Bates. Margie was born on September 23, 1948 in St. Petersburg, Florida. She lived a very rewarding Life which included having three children (Troy, Tracy, and Terry) along with 13 grandchildren in which 2 of these died before birth.

Margie spent her entire life in an effort to make the lives of others better. She was a very hard worker and always did things with a smile on her face. She was well loved and respected by all who knew her. Margie never met a stranger and welcomed anyone into her home with open arms. She worked for over 17 years supporting her family as a social worker and specialized in immunizations and nutrition for school aged children. She later decided to retire from her profession so she could move to Atlanta, Georgia and be with her children and grandchildren in whom she absolutely adored. Soon after her relocation to Atlanta, Margie was diagnosed with Pancreatic Cancer and her doctors gave her a very bleak prognosis. Margie's remaining 9 months with us was a true testament on how true love can be such an inspiration to those around you. Even when you know your outcome physically will result in your death before you're old and gray. Margie taught us that there are things in life which are more important than ones own self. Her example of love was demonstrated in how she lived her life and more specifically in how she died. I will forever miss her face and the huge warm hugs she shared with me everyday. It is my pleasure to be able to dedicate this academy to one of the Greatest women I have ever known, and to know I will see her again gives me the strength to drive on with my passion to have one of the Best Martial Arts Schools in the nation.