James Edward Yates, 81, of Yukon, Oklahoma, went to be with his Lord and Savior on Wednesday, Oct. 26, 2022, after battling Parkinson’s disease for over 20 years.
James was born on April 10, 1941, in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, to James and Mabel Yates. He was the oldest of four children. He was raised in Norman, Oklahoma.
James served in the Army before beginning his career in petroleum oil. He married Hazel Sue Jones on Jan. 22, 1966. He spent 45 years as a marketing sales manager for multiple oil companies. He traveled all over the state of Oklahoma and surrounding states. He loved his customers. He often said, “I have the best customers.” He retired from Citgo Oil Company shortly after being diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease.
James spent his retirement enjoying sporting activities of his grandchildren. During his first year of retirement, he read the Bible, from cover to cover. He was a devoted Christian. He had a favorite spot, next to good friends, at Town and Country Christian Church, where he was a member since 1977. He was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather and loved his family very much. He was an avid runner, running all over the town of Yukon. He enjoyed watching OU football, outdoor grilling, playing golf, cycling, swimming, coaching (girls softball and little league football) and driving around town in his convertible MG. But he was most happy when he was with his family, especially his grandkids and great grandkids.
James is survived by his wife, Sue; daughters, Sydney Honn and her husband Mike Honn of Banner; and Crystal McGarraugh and her husband Drew McGarraugh of Edmond; grandchildren, Ashley Bowers, Brittany Smith, Corey Honn, Luke McGarraugh and Olivia McGarraugh; great grandchildren, Charley and Emerson Bowers and Walker Smith; sister, Linda Yates; niece, Karlinda Gravel; and nephews, Tony Yates, William Yates and Eric Yates; as well as many friends.
James was preceded in death by his parents, James and Mabel Yates; brothers, Leroy and William “Buddy” Yates; and three nieces.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to The Parkinson’s Foundation.
Viewing will be held from 11 a.m. – 8 p.m., Monday, Oct. 31, 2022, at Yanda and Son Funeral Home, Yukon. Funeral services will be held at 3 p.m., Tuesday, Nov. 1, 2022 at Town and Country Christian Church, Yukon, with interment following at the Yukon Cemetery.
Online condolences may be signed at www.yandafuneral.com. Arrangements are under the direction of Yanda & Son Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Yukon, Oklahoma.
