Ruth D. Bates (nee Schafer), 95, of Williamstown, NJ, passed away on August 16, 2024, surrounded by her loving family.

Ruth was born and raised in Camden, NJ. She has lived in Williamstown for over 30 years.  She worked at Lynn's bakery in East Camden and as a seamstress for a tie manufacturer in Turnersville.  She was a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother.  She loved to crochet and her family knew her best for her beautiful, custom blankets.  She also enjoyed sewing, bingo, casinos, and scratch-offs.

Beloved wife of the late Earl Bates.  Devoted mother of Susan Bates, Patricia Moore (the late James), the late Earl Bates, Jr., Harry Bates (Phyllis), Cherrie Medoro (Michael), Donna Vincent, Ruth Pyle (William), Debra Bates, Diane Newton, the late Bertrum, and the late Robert Bates.  Loving grandmother of 23, great-grandmother of 28, and great-great grandmother of 5.

Relatives and friends are invited to her viewing on Thursday, August 22nd from 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM at the Farnelli Funeral Home, 504 N. Main St. Williamstown, NJ, where time of sharing will be held at 12:00 PM.  Burial will follow in Harleigh Cemetery, Camden.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society P.O. Box 42040 Oklahoma City, OK 73123, or to the Disabled American Veterans @ WWW.DAV.org

To sign the guestbook online, please visiting www.farnellifuneralhome.com