Phyllis T. Bates passed away unexpectedly at the New York University Medical Center on Thursday, June 8th. She was 67. Raised in Medford she was the daughter of the late John and Raffaela (DeFazio) Arcari.

Phyllis was a wonderful wife and mother who enjoyed time with her family and friends. She was devoted to her husband, helping him in his business ventures. Eventually settling with their children in Maryland, Bill and Phyllis returned to Medford recently to enjoy their retirement. She was a prolific collector of Hummels enjoyed travelling throughout the United States and overseas.


The beloved wife of William H. Bates, with whom she shared 46 years of marriage, she was a loving mother to Keleigh Bates of Medford and Kevin Bates and his wife Ashley of New Market, MD. Phyllis was a devoted sister to John Arcari and his wife Patricia of Medfield, Frank Arcari and his wife Katherine of McLean, VA, Elaine Fraser of Malden and her late husband Joseph, and Dennis Arcari of Medford. She also leaves many dear brothers and sisters-in-law as well as many nieces and nephews.

Family and friends may visit on Wednesday from 3 thru 8 PM at the Dello Russo Funeral Home, 306 Main St., Medford, MA and may gather for the funeral procession on Thursday morning June 15th at 9 followed by a funeral mass celebrated in St. Joseph Church, 118 High Street, Medford, at 10 AM. Services will conclude with burial at Oak Grove Cemetery, Medford.

In lieu of flowers contributions may be sent in Phyllis’ name to the American Heart Association, PO Box 417005, Boston, MA 022417005.