Josie Bates was born on April 8, 1999, in Tennessee to parents Gil and Kelly Jo Bates. She grew up in a large family as one of many siblings, including her older brother Trace Whitfield Bates. From a young age, Josie was surrounded by love and faith, with her family placing a strong emphasis on their Christian beliefs.
As Josie grew older, she found herself in front of the cameras as a member of the Bates family on the reality TV show Bringing Up Bates. The show first aired on Up TV on January 1, 2015, showcasing the daily life of the Bates family and their adventures. Josie quickly became a fan favorite for her kind-hearted nature and infectious personality.
In October 2018, Josie married Kelton Balka, her longtime love and partner. The couple's love story captivated viewers, and their wedding was a beautiful celebration of their commitment to each other. In July 2019, Josie and Kelton welcomed their first daughter, Willow, into the world, bringing even more joy and happiness into their lives.
Just two years later, in June 2021, the couple welcomed their second daughter, Hazel Sloane, completing their little family. Josie and Kelton were overjoyed to watch their daughters grow and thrive, cherishing every moment together as a family of four. Their love only continued to grow as they embraced the challenges and joys of parenthood.
In February 2024, Josie and Kelton welcomed a baby boy, completing their family of five. The arrival of their son brought even more love and happiness into their home, solidifying their bond as a family and bringing them even closer together.
Throughout her life, Josie has remained deeply connected to her faith, citing 1 Corinthians 10:31 as her favorite bible verse. She finds strength and guidance in her beliefs, turning to them during both the good times and the challenging moments. Her parents, Gil and Kelly Jo Bates, have instilled in her a strong sense of family values and love, shaping her into the compassionate and caring person she is today.
Overall, Josie Bates' story is one of resilience, love, and faith, a testament to the power of family and belief in shaping a fulfilling and meaningful life.