Constance "Connie" J. Bates of Norristown passed away surrounded by her family on July 24, 2025. She was 85 years old. Born in Phoenixville, she was the daughter of the late Irvin and Evelyn (Spence) Chavous.

Connie was a vibrant person who loved to dress up, dance, decorate, and have a good time. She had a gift for helping people and loved her family more than anything

She is survived by her beloved children, Karen Bates of Norristown, Wendell Bates of Chesapeake, Virginia, Esco Bates of Norristown, Jackie Thomas of Norristown, and Marshall Bates of Norristown; numerous grandchildren and great grandchildren; siblings, Francis Jameson, Evelyn Gonzalez, and Phyllis Santiago; many nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family, and friends. She was preceded in death by her children, Kevin, Stephan, and Stephanie; and her siblings, Calvin Spence, Marva Young, Mary Murphy, and Irvin Chavous.

Relatives and friends are invited to a viewing on Saturday, August 2, 2025 from 8:30am to 10:30am at Mt. Zion AME Church, 1312 Willow Street, Norristown, PA 19401. A funeral service will follow at 10:30am in the church. Interment will be held privately and at the convenience of the family.

In lieu of flowers, donations to the Bates Family ($EscoBates) can be made to offset final arrangements.

Funeral arrangements entrusted to Raffeo-DiCecco Memorial Home, Norristown. (610) 630-3259.