WESTFIELD – Mary J. O’Connor Bates, 89, a lifelong resident of Westfield passed away peacefully at her home on July 5, 2021. She was a graduate of St Mary’s Parish School. Mary was a past President of the Confraternity of the Most Holy Rosary and taught religious education for many years. She was predeceased by her beloved husband of 65 years David K. Bates (2020) her parents Ulysses and Irene O’Connor and 12 siblings.
She leaves to cherish her memory two brothers, Donald and James O’Connor. Mary will be greatly missed by her son Brian Bates and her daughter and son-in-law Barbara and James Coughlin. Mary was a loving Grandmother to Shannon Bolduc, Neal Coughlin and his wife Melanie, Emily Donoghue and her husband Brian. Her Great-Grandchildren, Jack, Colin, Noah, Bella and Lillyanna will miss her loving kindness.
Following many years as a crossing guard at Highland School, Mary worked in the offices of Strathmore Paper Co. in Westfield. She enjoyed many years of travel, golf and the companionship of many dear friends. She was an avid sports fan rooting for her beloved Red Sox right to the very end. She was an active member of the Sons of Erin and was a former Irish Woman of the year. Her Irish Soda Bread was legendary.
Visiting hours for Mary will be Tuesday July 13, 2021 from 9:00-11:30am at the Firtion Adams Funeral Home in Westfield. A Liturgy of Christian Burial will be held at 12 noon at St Mary’s Parish. Donations in Mary’s memory may be made to St Jude’s Children Research Hospital or St. Mary’s High School, 27 Bartlett St., or St. Mary’s Advancement, 86 Mechanic St, Westfield, MA. 01085. Firtionadams.com
