Mary J. Bates

Born in Hempstead, NY to Loretta (Sullivan) and Jerome Tew, Mary was the youngest of five siblings and grew up on Long Island. After high school, she graduated from Brown’s Business School and later worked at WHLI radio and on Wall Street. She married Charles Bates in 1959 and had three sons.

In 1970, Mary moved to Reston where she was active in community service helping start the PTA at the new Forest Edge Elementary School, working at the Common Ground Foundation in Lake Anne, and coaching boys soccer. Mary also worked at a law firm before retiring.

A devoted mother and grandmother, Mary was known for her kind heart and quick sense of humor. She loved music and to dance; was an avid sports fan; and enjoyed world travel. Most recently, Mary made her home at Orchard Senior Living in Atlanta, where she brightened the halls with her dancing.

She was preceded in death by her husband of 62 years, her parents, brothers Gerard, Richard, Robert and Jerome, and granddaughter Samantha.

She is survived by her sons Thomas, William and James; daughters-in-law Ann, Gwen and Allison; and seven grandchildren Rachel, Brett, Jessica, Kyle, Ben, Kay and Berit. The family will hold a private memorial. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the charity of your choice in Mary’s name.