Dorothy Bates

Dorothy Bates, the fourth of eight children, was born on April 18, 1930 to the late Beatrice and William C. Bates in Baltimore, Maryland. She was called to eternal rest on the morning of July 16, 2003, following a lengthy illness.Dot, as she was affectionately called, was educated in the Baltimore City Public Schools. For many years, she worked at the Manor Hill Salad Company. She also worked briefly in the cafeteria at Johns Hopkins University.She accepted Jesus as her personal Savior and was baptized on April 10, 1966 at the Calvary Baptist Church. She served on various ministries such as the former Gospel Chorus; Pastor’s Aide Society, Missionary Society, the Kitchen Committee and the Share Program until her health prevented it.Dot was also involved in community activities. She volunteered with Bethel Food-Co-Op, the Foster Grandparents Program, and many political campaigns in which she would make telephone calls to encourage citizens to get out and vote. In addition, she was a member of the Golden Age Club of Green Hill Housing.Dorothy had a keen sense of humor and an outgoing personality. She was well liked and had many dear friends, including Calvin Graves, Rosalind Holloway, Julia Saxon, Hazel Tillman and Annie “Doll” Yates.She enjoyed shopping for herself and others. She had an eye for style and fashion. Cooking was her favorite pastime. She was called upon to prepare meals for special occasions and family gatherings. She always responded willingly and joyfully.Her only son, Darnell, was devoted to her and lovingly cared for her during her illness. They had a special bond and relationship: a mother-to-son love that was genuine.Dorothy leaves to cherish her memory: son, Darnell; sisters, Agnes “Big Sis” Bellamy of Little River, South Carolina; Helen Weddington and Allene Carter, both of Baltimore; aunt, Ruth Bailey; a host of nieces and nephews, including Barbara A. Cooper, Sheila M. Matthews, Sheranda Cooper-Dildy, Elwood L. Toliver, Marvin H. Harris and Dammion Toliver; cousins, other relatives and a special friend, Thomas “Link” Smith.

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Dorothy Bates

April 18, 1930 - July 16, 2003