Born in Dickinson County, Virginia, on July 3, 1931, he was the son of Fred Parkis Yates and Stella Counts Yates. Upon graduation from Clintwood High School, Mr. Yates joined the U.S. Army and was stationed in Korea during the Korean War. He subsequently followed in his father’s footsteps, working as a lumber salesman for various companies including Ritter Lumber Company and Georgia Pacific before ultimately starting his own company, High Point Hardwoods. He continued working until his retirement at age 86.
Mr. Yates was an extraordinary athlete, excelling in multiple sports, and was a lifelong YMCA member. He attended Emerywood Baptist Church since moving to High Point in 1983. In 1994, Mr. Yates was instrumental in founding Caring Services Inc., a non-profit that provides support for persons with substance use disorders. We celebrate his life, which was defined by kindness, compassion, and unwavering generosity.
Survivors include his wife, Rebecca; his sons, Mike Yates, Jason Yates (Jennifer); and his daughters, Cathy Broome (Vince), and Jennifer Yates (Brad Quesinberry). Grandchildren include: Sara Hulsey (Chris), Anna Holcomb (Jimmy), Tyler Yates, Amanda Yates, Autumn Yates (Duncan Kelly), Jackson Quesinberry, Garrett Quesinberry, and Parker Quesinberry. He is also survived by 3 great-grandchildren, Zoey and Wyatt Holcomb and Julian Hulsey. He was predeceased by his daughter, Teresa (Terry) Yates, his parents, and his 7 siblings.
A memorial service for Jim will be held Tuesday, December 17, 2024, at 3pm at Emerywood Baptist Church, 1300 Country Club Drive, High Point, NC 27262.
In lieu of flowers, please send memorial donations to Caring Services Inc.: 102 Chestnut Drive, High Point, NC 27262.
The family is under the care of Sechrest-Davis Funerals and Cremations of High Point. Online condolences: www.sechrestdavisphillipsavenue.com –select obituaries.
