Barbara Ann Bates, 69, peacefully entered eternal rest on April 21, 2026, at her home. She was born in Myrtlewood, Alabama (Marengo County) to the late Julius Rogers and Daisy (Campbell) Rogers. Barbara was educated in the Boston Public School system and attended Jeremiah E. Burke High School.

She dedicated many years of service within the healthcare field in Boston and later retired from Boston Medical Center, where she worked as a patient administrator, known for her professionalism, compassion, and commitment to those she served. Barbara was a devoted and distinguished member of the Order of the Eastern Star for over 30 years. She served as Past Worthy Matron of the Queen of Sheba Chapter #11 and was also a member of Roselle Russell Court #1, where she served with excellence and received numerous accolades for her meritorious service. She maintained a connection to Morning Star Baptist Church and held her faith close throughout her life. Barbara found joy in life's simple pleasures. She loved to travel, shop, cook, and dance, and she especially enjoyed time spent on leisure outings, including visits to the casino. She was a wonderful cook, and her fish was the #1 favorite among family and friends.

Barbara leaves to cherish her memory the light of her life, her son, Larry Bates Jr. (and his wife, Renée Mari); her former husband, William Guy Smith, with whom she shared many years and a lasting bond of family; her cherished grandson, Joseph Bates; and her beloved bonus grandchildren, Carmello Marvel and Gabrielle Denae. She also leaves her devoted goddaughter, Alexis Flonary. She is survived by her loving siblings: sisters Shirley A. Young, Rose Ferrer of Seattle, WA, and Luciele Niles of Randolph, MA; brothers Jesse Rogers ,Tony Rogers, Stanley Rogers, & Milton "Kat Rogers, all of Boston. She was predeceased by her brother, Leon Rogers. Barbara also leaves a host of nieces and nephews: nieces Yolanda, Katrina,Monique, Samara, and Serenity; nephews Trayvon, Nicholas, John, George, Xavier, Anthony, and Robert. She was predeceased by her nephew Alex. She is also remembered by her dear aunts Ruby, Rochelle, Ethel May Coleman, and Ruth May Nance, as well as her special friend, Michael Joseph, and a host of extended family and friends who will miss her dearly. Barbara's life was one of strength, service, and quiet resilience. Her love for her family, her dedication to her community, and the warmth she shared with those around her will never be forgotten.