Margaret Ann 'Tootsie' Sankey Bates (Fowler), age 78 of New Castle, passed away in the early morning of July 28, 2021, at her residence. Born June 14, 1943, in New Castle, she was the daughter of the late John and Margaret Francis (Robison) Fowler, Sr. Margaret was married to John Sankey, before he preceded her in death. Subsequently, she married William T. Bates on June 14, 1974. He also preceded her in death. Margaret was a graduate of Union High School. She was a server at Isaly's and Red Barn restaurants. She was also employed as a caregiver. For 13 years she was a school bus driver for the New Castle, Union, and St. Vitus School Districts. She loved flowers, gardening and most of all, spending time with her family, especially her grandchildren. She attended Clifton Flats Alliance Church. Margaret is survived by her son, Edward A. (Suzy) Sankey of Ellwood City, PA; daughter Sherry (Paul) Magee of New Castle, PA; sister, Agnes Mae Fowler of Union Twp., PA; six grandchildren, seven great-grandchildren and several nieces and nephews. In addition to her parents and husbands, Margaret was preceded in death by two brothers, Richard John Fowler, Sr., and John Fowler, Jr., as well as her son William J. Bates and daughter-in-law, Merian Bates. Visitation will be held on Monday, Aug. 2nd from 5:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. at the R. Cunningham Funeral Home & Crematory, Inc., 2429 Wilmington Road, New Castle. A service will follow immediately at 6:00 p.m., with Rev. Matthew Bupp officiating. Burial will be at Oak Park Cemetery. Online condolences may be offered to the family by visiting www.cunninghamfh.com.