Patricia Sunday Bates

Patricia Sunday Bates, 86, died July 12, 2026. She was a resident of Sun City, Arizona. Born May 10, 1940, Patricia’s life was marked by the steady presence of a beloved wife, friend, and community member whose care for others was expressed in both quiet dedication and generous participation in the world around her. A close friend of Pat's wrote: "She was one of the most intelligent, wittiest and feistiest women I have ever met. " Many who knew her agreed with that description.

Patricia graduated from Webster Schroeder High School in Webster, NY, and attended the University of Montana in Missoula, Montana for four years.

Patricia was married to Howard Bates. Together, Patricia and Howard traveled extensively before moving to Sun City, Arizona, living full time in their RV for seven years and visiting every state other than Hawaii. Pat and her husband enjoyed dogs and had a partnership in operating a boarding kennel in New York. They also exhibited Great Danes at both American Kennel Club and Canadian Kennel Club shows. Several of their dogs achieved "Champion" titles in both organizations.

Patricia found joy and purpose in the work of her hands and the company of others. Her hobbies included knitting, sewing, and beading, and she belonged to a variety of clubs, including shuffleboard and crafts.

Pat was an avid reader and had an extensive collection of hard and soft cover books. She was often reading an e-book, listening to an audio book and reading a printed book at the same time.

In Sun City, Patricia gave her time with care and consistency, serving as the Secretary of Friends of the Sun City Libraries and as Secretary of West Valley Genealogical Society. Her service reflected a lasting respect for learning, history, and the shared bonds that grow when people show up for one another.

She is survived by her younger brother, John Serafine, who resides in Webster, NY.

Patricia will be remembered with respect and affection by all who knew her.