Cheri P. Bates passed on to be with our Lord on Monday, January 27, at New London Hospital surrounded by her loving family. Cheri fought a six-year battle with Alzheimer’s and finally succumbed to pneumonia.

Cheri was born in Salem, Massachusetts on April 3, 1967, the daughter of Loretta (Raymond) Bates and William S. Bates. Cheri graduated from Concord High School in Concord in 1988 with the Special Education Class.

Cheri participated in the Special Olympics and won a Gold Medal in the 50-yard run and the softball throw representing Essex County in the Massachusetts Olympics.

Cheri worked full-time at New London Hospital for 16 years in the laundry until six years ago with the onset of her sickness. Cheri was the first Cross Bearer at the Immaculate Conception Church in Andover, a position she held for over 30 years. Her hobbies were riding her three-wheeler and swinging on her swing while listening to her music on her headset. Cheri was a special angel sent from God above to spread her love to everyone she came in contact with, which she did for over 46 years. Cheri loved everyone and everyone loved Cheri.

Cheri is survived by her parents, Loretta and William Bates of Andover; three brothers: Thomas Bates and David Bates of Andover and Mike Bates of Lakeland, Florida; and two sisters: Amy (Bates) Cushing of New London and Rebecca (Bates) Smart of Andover.

The funeral Mass will be held at the Immaculate Conception Church on Church Lane in Andover on Saturday, February 1, at 11 AM. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to the Immaculate Conception Church in care of Our Lady of Fatima, 724 Main Street, New London 03257.