Shirley W. Bates

Shirley W. Bates obituary

Shirley W. Bates

Shirley Bates Obituary

Obituary published on Legacy.com by Jenkins & Newman Funeral Home on Nov. 18, 2025.

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BRUNSWICK, VT – Shirley W. Bates, 88, a life-long resident of Brunswick, Vt., died on Saturday, Nov. 15, 2025, at the Androscoggin Valley Hospital in Berlin, N.H., after a period of declining health.

She was born in Norton, Vt., on May 15, 1937, a daughter of the late Horace T.A. Webster and Violet (Willard) Webster. With her family, they came to live in Brunswick in 1942. Shirley attended schools in Stratford and attended Pierce Business School in Concord, N.H.

Shirley's career as a legal secretary saw her working for many different north country lawyers, her longest stint being at Hinkley & Hinkley Law Office in Lancaster. She also served as the treasurer for the Town of Brunswick for many years, and she was also a substitute rural mail carrier for the U.S. Postal Service.

Her most favorite work and pastime was owning and operating Bates Greenhouse with her husband, James, for several years, retiring in 1997. They were known for their stunning perennial gardens and collection of desert plants.

She is survived by her two sons, Eric K. Bates of Brunswick, and Trevor (Mary) Bates of Lancaster, N.H.; and two grandsons, Wyatt and Tucker Bates. She is predeceased by her husband of 45 years, James D. Bates in 2014.

At her specific request, there are no public services scheduled.

Condolences may be offered to the family on-line by going to www.jenkinsnewman.com.

Arrangements are entrusted to the care of Jenkins & Newman Funeral Home in Colebrook.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

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