Obituary

Lily Mae Spates, 94, of Seattle, Washington passed away peacefully Friday evening January 31st 2025. Lily was born in New Orleans, Louisiana on April 1st 1930. She had two siblings   Lene and LT both who preceded her in death.

She moved to Seattle as a teen with her Uncle Paul and Aunt   Sylvia. They decided to return to Louisiana, but Lily chose to remain in Seattle. While in Seattle she attended nursing school and worked for Boeing.

While in Seattle she met Joseph Allen Spates and married the love of her life. They were married for 65 years. Through that  union, they had 4 children: Mary Ann, Cassandra, Jocelyn and John. Lily loved road trips, fishing, good conversation, and had a passion for Bingo. Together with Joseph they started Joe Spates the Cleaner.  Together they had a thriving dry cleaning business that was a fixture in the Seattle community for 42 years before they both retired. Lily was known for her giving nature and devotion to her family. Lily was a faithful servant of God. She was a devoted member of First A.M.E. church for over 60 years. She served in numerous organizations at the church, choir and Zodiac tea.

Lily is survived by her children, Mary Ann, Sandra, John (Tara). Other survivors include grandchildren Carlo Jo, Zhane’ and Tehya, and a host of  nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. Lily will always be remembered as a devoted wife and mother with an infectious smile, also her attachment to the community.

Everyone who knew Lily loved her and will always carry fond memories of her in their hearts.