Tracey Leigh Bruce Ates, age 62, of Winnfield, Louisiana, passed away on Sunday, December 28, 2025, at her residence in Winnfield.

Tracey was born on Friday, February 8, 1963, in Jonesboro, Louisiana, to James Bruce and Mavis Franks Bruce. Her father preceded her in death.

Tracey found her greatest happiness outdoors, especially by the river—whether hunting, fishing, or sitting beside a campfire surrounded by her beloved grandchildren and her faithful dog, Dixie. Those moments reflected her joyful spirit, her love of family, and her deep appreciation for the simple blessings of life.

She is survived by her loving husband, James Darrell Ates of Winnfield; her mother, Mavis Franks Bruce of Winnfield; her children, Matthew Smith, Joshua Smith, Ethan Smith, Christi Wyatt (Nick), and Ryan Ates; and her cherished grandchildren, Skylar Smith, Marleigh Ates, Landry Kate Wyatt, Gannon Ates, and Briggs Ates. She is also survived by her nieces and nephews, Casey Womack (Jerimiah), Caleb Bruce, Cole Bruce (Sarah); and her siblings, Gayle Short, Carl Bruce, and Scott Bruce; and by her great nieces and nephews, Emily Womack and Cade and Celia Bruce.

Graveside services will be held in the Bolton Teagle Cemetery of Winnfield at 2:00 PM on Tuesday, December 30, 2025 with Rev. Joe Bruce officiating. Interment will follow under the direction of Southern Funeral Home.

Serving as pallbearers will be Matthew Smith, Joshua Smith, Ethan Smith, Ryan Ates, Cole Bruce, and Jerimiah Womack. Honorary pallbearers will be Scott Bruce, Carl Bruce, and Nick Wyatt.

Tracey will be remembered for her warm heart, her love of nature, and the deep devotion she had for her family. Her memory will forever live on in the lives she touched and the moments shared beside quiet waters and glowing fires.