In Loving Memory of Marylou Bates

Marylou Bates, a devoted Christian and cherished member of her family, transitioned to be with the Lord on August 26, 2025, at the age of 88. She was born on January 11, 1937, in Clarence Center, NY, to the late Fred and Myra (Doner) Brauen, and was predeceased by her beloved husband, William "Bill" Bates.

Marylou was a proud graduate of Clarence Central High School, class of 1954. Her journey took her to Southeastern Pennsylvania, where she began her career with Bell Telephone. After marrying, she embraced her role as a homemaker, dedicating her life to her family. In 1978, the Bates family returned to Western New York, settling in Middleport, where Marylou would spend the next 42 years of her life.

As her children grew, Marylou engaged deeply in her community, volunteering as an after-school Bible Club leader and offering her time as a tutor with a literacy aid organization. Her faith and commitment to service were evident in all she did.

In December 2020, she moved back to Pennsylvania, where she became a resident at the Cross Keys Brethren Home in New Oxford. She is remembered fondly as a loving mother to David (Deborah) Bates of Connecticut and April (Jeff) Cook of Maryland. Marylou was a devoted grandmother to Ian and Luke Bates, and Emily and Abigail Cook, whose lives she touched immensely.

She is survived by two sisters, Ruth Brauen of Mechanicsburg, PA, and Carolyn Sue Yoder of Middleport, NY, and was predeceased by four brothers: James, Leonard, Ronald, and Larry.

Marylou's legacy of love, faith, and commitment to family will forever be remembered by all who knew her.

In keeping with Marylou's wishes, services will be private and at the convenience of the family.

To share memories of Marylou, please click the "Guestbook" link below.