Obituary of Florence Rita Bates

BATES - The death of Florence Rita Bates, widow of the late Lloyd G.Bates, formerly of 55 Smythe St., occurred peacefully at her residence, the Loch Lomond Villa, on Sunday, June 28, 2009, in her 87th year. Flo was the second eldest of seventeen children born to the late Wilfred L. and Sarah Anne (Bernard) McPhee. Flo was a graduate of St.Vincent's High School and had been employed by McAvity's, the Telegraph Journal & Evening Times Globe as a supervisor of Classified Ads, and the Toronto Globe and Mail. Her gregarious and friendly manner defined her personality. She was an avid reader, loved dancing, traveling and enjoyed the cruise ships. Flo is survived by one sister, Jean (Sylvio) Gagnon of Saint John, three brothers, John McPhee of B.C., Larry McPhee (Pat) of Quispamsis, and Wally McPhee (Shirley) of Saint John; a special niece, Norma Landry and her daughter, Samantha Landry; and several nieces, nephews, and cousins. She was predeceased by six sisters, Irene Haynes, Mary Cormier, Gertrude Trigg, Jacqueline LeBlanc, Anna Savard, and Doris Miles; and six brothers, Joseph, Daniel, James, Michael, Francis, and Edward McPhee. Resting at Fitzpatrick's Funeral Home, 100 Waterloo St., with visiting on Tuesday from 7 to 9 and on Wednesday from 2 to 4 and 7 to 9. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at Stella Maris Church on Thursday morning at ten o'clock. Interment will take place in St. Joseph's Cemetery. In lieu of flowers the family would appreciate donations to Loch Lomond Villa Foundation, the Alzheimer Society of Saint John, or the charity of your choice. The family wish to extend thanks to all the wonderful staff at Loch Lomond Villa for their excellent care and compassion.