Maryjane Ann (Bates) Waters

Maryjane Ann (Bates) Waters of Southbridge, MA, passed away suddenly at home on Monday, July 14, 2025, surrounded by her loving family.

Affectionately known as Mary, she was the beloved daughter of the late Frances (Dearborn) Schipper and Herbert Bates. Maryjane dedicated much of her life to nurturing young minds as a preschool teacher in the Springfield School System. More recently she worked for the Sarah and Richard Hardy YMCA Child Development Center in Southbridge. Her deep patience, warmth, and passion for children made a lasting impact on those she taught and worked with.

Maryjane was a gentle soul with a quiet strength. She was known for her kind heart, calm presence, and unwavering love for her family. Never one to speak poorly of anyone, she was a listener, a comforter, and a light to those around her.  

She will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her. 

Mary moved to Southbridge, MA in late 2021, taking an apartment in the house where her son Kristopher and his husband lived and owned. She volunteered time in her new community for the Festival of {Giving} Trees, assisting at their large December event twice, dressed as Mother Goose reading books to little kids on Children’s Day, and twice as a raffle sales volunteer. Mary especially enjoyed playing with, teaching and spending time with her youngest grandson Jordan who she could see every day.

Mary is survived by her three children William R. Waters, Jr and partner Tonya Walton of Murfreesboro, TN, Kristopher A. Skonieczny and husband Jeff of Southbridge, MA, and her daughter Jennifer I. Waters of Springfield, MA. She also leaves behind her six cherished grandchildren: Billy Waters, Alex Waters (Anna), Kay-Lee Waters, Lily Waters, Destiny Francis (Axel Quinones) and Jordan Skonieczny, as well as 5 great grandchildren, including newborn great granddaughter Marceline Quinones and many nieces and nephews.

She is survived by her three siblings: Arlene Rusin of Chicopee, MA, Edward “Charley” Bushey and wife Debbie of Springfield, MA and Helen Bushey of Enfield, CT. Mary was predeceased by her sisters Karen Corcoran, Susan Cusson and brother Henry Bushey.  

Calling hours will be held on Thursday, July 31, 2025, from 4-6PM at Sansoucy Funeral Home, 40 Marcy Street, Southbridge, MA 01550 

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