Edna “Joan” Bates 1930-2024 passed away on May 15th at her home in Sumner, Washington. Joan was born in Wales and grew up in Maidenhead, England. She was a true English rose.

She was surrounded by her loving family the days leading up to her death. On Mother’s Day she was able to tell her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren that she loved them and they her. Her dementia left her, and she was talking and understanding. It was a true miracle!

Joan was a military wife for 18 years, traveling the US and Germany. She managed to create a lovely home in every location, while supporting her husband of 61 years, Joseph Bates (1927-2014). She and Joe lived in Blaine for many years, where he was with US Customs.

Joan was a member of Daughters of the British Empire and the British Friendship Club. She loved all their High Teas, Fetes, and Bazaars. She volunteered at the Stafholt Assisted Living, where she was treasurer. She was an avid reader of true crime, loved British detective shows, enjoyed crochet, and most of all playing cards weekly with friends.

Joan was preceded in death by her parents Clifford and Rose Ellen (Nin) Perkins, her brother Bill, and sister Marigold. She never got over losing her son John Bates in 2019 at the age of 57. His widow, Dawn, and his three daughters helped to keep his spirit alive.

She is survived by daughters Jennifer Carnahan and Joanne (Jef) Baker; grandchildren Jimmy, Rachael, Michael, Ryan, Niki, Courtney, Chelsea, and Cat; seven great-grandchildren; and two great-great grandchildren. This makes for five generations!

Joan was sweet, funny, generous, and loved by her family and friends. She will leave a huge void in our lives, but we know she will be our Guardian Angel in Heaven.