Mary Frances, age 90, Shawnee, KS passed away March 17, 2017.

She was born June 27, 1926 to John and Frances Lally.  She attended Bishop Ward High School and graduated in 1943.  She married Ralph C. "Rope" Bates May 10, 1947.  Mary Frances was a member of St. Joseph Catholic church and retired from the Shawnee Mission School District after 20 years.  As members of Lake Quivira County Club, she and Rope enjoyed golf and built many friendships during their 30 years there.  She was an avid KU basketball fan and would watch as long as the score wasn't too close and then she would get too nervous to watch.  In her later years at Shawnee Hills, she was one to never miss a game of Canasta, or any card game, with her new group of friends, or enjoy a good book.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband in 2006; infant daughter Carole Anne; and brothers Tom, John, and Ed.  She is survived by her four sons, Ron (Sherry), Ralph (Debi), Raymond (Evelyn); and Randy; 9 grandchildren; and 3 great-grandsons; sister Betty Rafferty; sisters-in-law Joanne Lally and Martha Lally; and numerous nieces and nephews.

True to her proud Irish heritage and strong Catholic faith, it was only fitting that she died on St. Patrick's Day wearing green beads.

Visitation and Services

Visitation will be 9:30 am Wednesday, March 22, 2017 at St. Joseph Catholic Church, 11311 Johnson Drive; Shawnee, KS 66203.  Mass of Christian Burial will follow at 10:30 am at the church. Burial in St. Joseph Catholic Cemetery.

Memorial Contributions

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to St. Joseph Catholic Church, Shawnee, KS; Crossroads Hospice, 11150 Thompson, Lenexa, KS 66219; or a charity of your choice.