Sharon Bates, 67, of Wescosville, died Jan. 24, 2021, with her family by her side in the comfort of her home after a long battle with a rare neurological disease. She was happily married to Jack Bates for 41 years. Born in Hartford, Conn., she was the daughter of the late William Oaks and Gertrude (Riley) Oaks.

She was a natural homemaker and mother. She was known for her skills in baking and gardening.

Her love of animals led her to earn a degree in biology from Anderson University in Indiana, allowing her to work for various animal clinics as a veterinary technician. She also had a wide scope of volunteer roles at Lehigh Valley Hospital, Phoebe Home, Meals on Wheels, Dough to Door and many others.

In her free time, she played tennis most often at the West End Racquet Club. She was a gifted athlete. When she wasn’t playing tennis, you could find her and Jack on the dance floor swing dancing.

She and her husband were known for their hospitality and strong partnership; they hosted many small group Bible studies and neighborhood parties over the years. She was also a gifted speaker in many women’s groups and Bible studies.

She is survived by her husband; children, Emily and her fiancé Ryan and Sally; five grandchildren; a sister-in-law, Sue; siblings, Connie, Ken and Stan.

Contributions may be made to Good Shepherd Rehabilitation, 850 S. Fifth St., Allentown, 18103 or CURE PSP, 216 Broadway, New York, N.Y., 10001.

A funeral service will be held 11 a.m. Jan. 29 at Bethany Church, 1208 Brookside Road, Wescosville, where the family will receive friends 10 a.m. until the time of the service. Due to current COVID-19 restrictions social distancing and facial covering protocols will be followed. Arrangements were made by the J.S. Burkholder Funeral Home, Allentown.