Obituary for James Yates

James Yates

March 6, 1937 – August 17, 2024

James Edwin Yates, 87, long-time Ponca City resident, left this life on August 17, 2024 in Tulsa, OK. A Celebration of Life Ceremony will be held at 11:00 AM, Saturday, August 24, 2024 at Central Baptist Church. He will be laid to rest privately at Resthaven Memorial Park. Arrangements are under the direction of Trout Funeral Home & Crematory, 505 W. Grand Ave, Ponca City, OK, 74601.

James was born on March 6, 1937, in Hawkins, TX to Le Roy and Alice Estelle (Ellison) Yates. He graduated from high school in Marshall, TX in 1955 where he won the heart of Connie Lee Henry. They began dating before their senior year and were married about a year after graduation on August 25, 1956, celebrating over 61 years together. Early in their marriage, they resided in Marshall, TX before moving to Stillwater, OK in 1958. Connie and James then moved to Ponca City where James was employed by Conoco as a research chemist. As changes at Conoco occurred, Connie and James relocated to Austin, TX in 1989, where they lived until retirement in 1993. Ponca City became their home again in retirement as a welcomed change from the hustle and bustle of Austin.

James developed a keen interest in chemistry during his college years, earning a Bachelor’s degree from East Texas Baptist College and a Master’s degree from Oklahoma State University. His enthusiasm for discovery extended beyond the laboratory to the skies, when encouraged by family, he became an avid pilot. Later he became a dedicated member of the Ponca City Aviation Boosters and the local EAA chapter. In retirement, James found joy in building and flying experimental aircraft, sharing these thrilling experiences with family and friends.

He and Connie treasured their time at their cabin near Lake City, Colorado where they enjoyed a range of activities such as fishing, walking, Jeeping, and snowmobiling. Their strong bond was reflected in their shared adventures and close friendships. James also had a profound appreciation for WWII history and western movies. While he always had a fondness for Braum’s ice cream, later in life, he developed quite a sweet tooth.

James’ life was deeply rooted in his love for family and renewed faith. As a dedicated father, he lovingly raised his children and set the example for how they should live their life. As a devoted husband, he provided unwavering care and support to Connie during her final six years battling cancer. His legacy is a testament to his integrity and sacrifice, his varied interests, commitment to family, and his active engagement in his community.

He is cherished by his children: Randy Yates and Johanna Schneider of Oklahoma City, OK; Gary Yates and wife, Dana, of Rose Hill, KS; Darren Yates and wife, Kimberly, of Collinsville, OK; and Tara Yeager and husband, Mike, of Cypress, TX; treasured grandchildren: Joshua Yates of Derby, KS; Dustin Yates of Hutchinson, KS; Jessica Yates of Stillwater, OK; Ethan Ritter, Jonah Yates, and Camden Yates of Collinsville, OK; Danielle Hooker of Oklahoma City, OK; Haley Camejo (Petty Officer 3rd Class, USN), Kylee Camacho, Alexandra Yeager, Samantha Yeager, John Yeager, and Bobby Yeager of Cypress, TX and several great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren. James was preceded in death by his loving wife, Connie and his parents.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association, 225 N. Michigan Ave. Floor 17, Chicago, IL 60601.

Source: Trout Funeral Home