Sheri Lee Bates of New Cumberland, PA, has passed away, leaving behind a family and community who loved her dearly.
What follows is written with love, by those who knew her best.
There are losses that teach us the weight of a life.
Sheri Lee Bates, 64, of New Cumberland died Wednesday, April 8, 2026 at Penn State Hershey Medical Center.A 1979 graduate of Cedar Cliff High School, she was a bartender and server for Hershey Entertainment & Resorts. A loving mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, she was an avid Steelers, Red Sox, and Penguins fan.She was born August 3, 1961 in Harrisburg to the late Charles and Dora (Denney) Megonnell. She was also preceded in death by her daughter, Tara Finkboner.She is survived by her husband, Dennis Patrick Bates; siblings, Neal Megonnell (Kim), Jill Sparks (Randy), and Charles Megonnell (Paul); grandchildren, Lily Peifer and Kade Finkboner; great-grandson, Sergio Alcala, Jr.; and many nieces and nephews.A Celebration of Sheri’s Life will be held Saturday, 9 May 2026, 2-4 PM, at Post 7415 of the VFW, 109 3rd St. New Cumberland, PA 17070. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to a PA 529 College Fund to benefit her great-grandson Sergio's education. Donations may be made online at https://www.ugift529.com (Gift Code: 93V-Z7B).
