Shirley A. Bates, 83, of Worcester passed away peacefully at home on January 19, 2019 after a 3-month struggle with lung cancer.

She was born in Wakefield, MA to Edward and Emeline (Perry) Cleary. She graduated from Commerce High School and worked at the Worcester Telegram & Gazette and Howard Johnson’s Vending Service.

Shirley is survived by her children Timothy Bates and wife Michelle of Auburn, Brenda Fisher of Windham, ME, Patricia Riley and husband Richard of Rockaway Township, NJ; daughter-in-law Nancy Bates of Auburn; brothers Reino Sutela and wife Ann of Vancouver, WA, and Joseph Cleary of Connecticut; grandchildren Jennifer Brindisi and husband Chris Dufresne; Chelsea Pascucci and husband Jason; Chad Bates; and the lights of her life great-grandsons James and Finn Pascucci; her cat Tabby; along with several nieces and nephews.

She was pre-deceased by her parents, her husband Clement Bates, her son Russell Bates, her brother Edward J. Cleary, and her son-in-law Bradley Fisher.

Shirley was happiest when doing for others. Her love and kindness created an immense bond with family and friends. She loved to cook, bake, knit and travel. She was known for her homemade jams and annual Christmas cookie deliveries. She took great joy in feeding everyone, 2-legged and 4-legged. The neighborhood dogs could always count on a cookie from her pocket when out for her morning walk and it was not uncommon for her to pop popcorn for her bird and squirrel friends.

As her last act of generosity, Shirley donated her body to science, and per her wishes there will be no calling hours or services. Interment will be at a later date at the convenience of the family.

The family would like to thank her friends and neighbors as well as the aides and nurses that provided care and compassion over the past months. Those who desire may make a memorial donation in memory of Shirley to VNA Hospice & Palliative Care, Fund Development Office, 199 Rosewood Drive, Suite 180, Danvers, MA 01923