James Keenan "Jimmy" Yates

James Keenan “Jimmy” Yates, 66, passed away peacefully in his Lake Charles home on Sunday, June 21, 2026. He was born on April 17, 1960, in Sanford, Florida, to Nathan and Donalda Hebert Yates.

Jimmy was a 1978 graduate of LaGrange High School in Lake Charles, where he served as Drum Major for the LaGrange High School marching band. His love for music remained an important part of his life. He especially enjoyed collecting guitars, a reflection of the quiet joy music brought him through the years.

Following high school, Jimmy served his community as a Lake Charles City Policeman from 1978 to 1983. He later served his country in the United States Army Cyber Center of Intelligence from 1983 to 1987. Then, he worked for Union Camp in Savannah, Georgia, from 1987 to 1991. Currently, he was working as Supervisor for Caleb-Brett Petroleum Cargo Inspections.

Jimmy was a quiet, kind, and soft-spoken man. He was a Christian who loved his Lord and Savior. He also had a tender heart for animals and will be remembered for his gentle nature, steady presence, and sincere love for those close to him.

Those left to cherish his memory include his daughters, Kristen Yates and Allyson Yates; his former wife, Melissa “Missy” Yates; his grandchildren, Andrew Myers, Lilly Myers, Liam Daly, Azlynn Yates, Ainsley McAbee, Levi Yates, and Layla Nelson; his brother, Paul Yates; his sisters, Susan Yates, Gwen Yates Kersten (Joel), and Laura Yates; along with numerous nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his son, Gabriel Yates; his step-son, Jonathan Nelson; and his brother, Nathan Yates.

A Memorial Service will be held at 2:00 PM on Tuesday, June 30, 2026, in the chapel of Johnson Funeral Home of Lake Charles, located at 4321 Lake Street. Visitation will be held at the funeral home on Tuesday from 11:00 AM until the start of the service. Cremation has been entrusted to Johnson Funeral Home of Lake Charles.