Mary Jane Bates, known affectionately as MJ, aged 78, died on December 27, 2025, at St. John’s Hospital in Springfield, Illinois. A native of Herrin, Illinois, born May 5, 1947, to Don and Bertha Moake (née Barnes), her passing is met with sorrow by those who knew her, recalling a person of notable kindness, steadfast support, and deep commitment to her circle.
Her secondary education concluded at Johnston City High School in 1965. She subsequently dedicated a substantial portion of her professional life to public broadcasting, serving as an administrative manager for the stations WMEC, WQEC, and WSEC for approximately thirty-five years prior to her retirement. Former colleagues reference her reliability and her aptitude for fostering collegial relationships through a positive and considerate demeanor.
Her personal pursuits were varied and energetic. She took pleasure in literary fiction, televised game programs and professional football, journeying to new locations, and the culinary arts, often preparing meals for family gatherings. The Christmas season held particular fondness for her, exemplified by a collection of Santa Claus figurines that adorned her home. Most significantly, she valued moments shared with her descendants, including both grandchildren and family pets, who provided continual delight.
She is survived by her three children: Jeff Bates of Godfrey; Jennifer Rodgers (spouse Scott) of Carlinville; and Doug Bates (spouse Katie) of Chatham. Her surviving grandchildren are Mikayla Rodgers, Bailey Rodgers, and Savannah Kirchner. She also leaves behind her brother, Bill Moake of Carlinville; a sister-in-law, Jan Bates; another sister-in-law, Evelyn Hutten; and several nieces and nephews. Her family now contends with the absence of a central and stabilizing figure.
She was preceded in death by her parents; a brother, Larry Moake; and sisters-in-law Sue Moake and Betty Moake. These bereavements were met with a resilient and graceful fortitude that continued to sustain her relatives.
A period for public condolences is set for Saturday, January 3, 2026, from 2:00 p.m. until 4:00 p.m. at Davis-Anderson Funeral Home in Carlinville. A subsequent gathering to commemorate her life will be held at Reno’s Pizza, where attendees may share recollections and reflect on the imprint of her seventy-eight years. As her community mourns, Mary Jane Bates will be recalled for her benevolent spirit, her familial devotion, and the cheer she disseminated among acquaintances.