Mildred

Bates

BATES, MILDRED “Millie” RUTH (DAHLING), age 97, of Avalon, NJ, formerly of Philadelphia, PA, passed into the arms of God on November 8, 2026. She was the beloved wife of the late Charles S. Bates, Sr., with whom she shared sixty-eight wonderful years of marriage. Born in Fox Chase, PA, on Christmas Eve in 1928, Mildred was the daughter of August and Karoline (Knoller) Dahling. She was predeceased by her 12 siblings. Like many of her generation, Mildred made sacrifices early in life, leaving behind her high school years to help support her family. At just fourteen years old, she began working at a floral shop, where she developed a lifelong knowledge of and passion for flowers and gardening. She later worked for Sears, specializing in engine parts. Upon marrying her beloved Charlie, Mildred devoted her life to raising their four children: Diane Solley (the late Donald Solley); the late Gwendolyn Kraft (Danny); Doreen Rondomanski; and Charles S. Bates, Jr. (Marie).

Above all, Mildred cherished her family and was lovingly known as “Nanny” to her 8 grandchildren, 12 great-grandchildren, and 2 great-great-grandchildren. Her family will forever treasure the countless memories made together, especially the summer vacations spent with “Nanny and Pop” at their shore house in Avalon. Her love, warmth, and devotion to those closest to her will remain in their hearts for generations to come. Mildred is now reunited with those who went before her, especially her beloved Charlie and her precious daughter Gwen. May she walk through eternal gardens, surrounded by all the beautiful flowers she so lovingly cared for throughout her life, as she enjoys the fullness of God's everlasting love.

Relatives and friends are invited to her viewing on Saturday, November 14th at 10:00AM, followed by her funeral service at 11:00AM at Kirk and Nice Suburban Chapel, 333 County Line Rd., Feasterville, PA 19053. Interment will take place at Sunset Memorial Park, Feasterville.

In lieu of flowers, contributions to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital are kindly appreciated and may be made at www.stjude.org or mailed to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105.