Arthur Stewart Bates, Jr., also known as Sonny, was born August 23,1935 in Holbrook, Massachusetts. After graduating from Sumner High School, class of 1953, he enlisted in the Massachusetts National Guard, where he was a member of the 26th division, 101st Infantry Medical Company. He attended Mass Military Academy and was commissioned Second Lieutenant in the Mass. National Guard and a Reserve Officer commissioned in the U.S. Army. He was honorably discharged on the 23rd of November 1962. After 34 plus years with the United States Postal Service, Arthur retired in 2009.

Arthur loved his home in Marshfield. He also loved animals. Over the years he had many, including his beloved English Sheepdog, Shem, 3 horses, Sandy, Baron, and Wizjon, a goat, Suzy, and many chickens. He enjoyed gardening, cooking, eating and visiting friends. His favorite holiday was Christmas. He loved everything about Christmas, the decorating, the food, the shopping, gifts, the gathering of friends and family.

Arthur leaves behind his nephews Harold (Chuck) Frazier and his wife Julie, John Pearson and his niece, Maryann Frazier-Koppen, as well as a few very close friends, Joe, Tim and Jackie, and a little bit of advice:

To the world I say this:

Hold out your hand

Help others

Be it kindness or love

A home to live within

Or wealth of any amount

For this you’ll be rewarded

By mankind and God

Arthur will be laid to rest with a committal service on Thursday, May 14, 2026 at 1:00 p.m. in the Couch Cemetery, Union Street in Marshfield.

Funeral services provided by the MacDonald Funeral Home of Marshfield.