Jesse O. Yates

Jesse Ogden Yates, 84, a long-time resident of Austin, Texas passed away Saturday September 11, 2010. He was preceded in death by his parents Elmer and Olice Yates and wife of 55 years Mary “Joy” Yates.

Mr. Yates is survived by son Ron Yates and wife Sandra of Houston; son Kevin Yates of Austin; daughter Traci Stolle and husband David of Pflugerville; his loving grandchildren; Will and wife Annette of Houston, Sean, Corbin, Cameron; his great-grandchildren; Jude and Ethan. He is also survived by sister Maxine Shearin and husband Forest of Bloomberg, Texas; sister Janice Endsley and husband Tom of Queen City, Texas and brother Johnny Yates and wife Mary of Southfork, Colorado as well as many other loving family members and friends.

Jesse was born October 1, 1925 in Bivins, Cass County Texas. He entered the Army in January 1944 at the age of 18. He was deployed to Europe in October 1944 and participated in the Battle of the Bulge and the Rhineland campaign achieving the rank of Corporal. He was awarded the Bronze Star for meritorious achievement in ground combat against the armed enemy during World War II in the European African Middle Eastern Theater of Operations. He was wounded in action and received the Purple Heart.

After military service, Jesse worked as a salesman before becoming a general contractor for over 20 years. After retiring, Jesse spent the last 14 years as the always friendly greeter at Sam’s. Jesse never knew a stranger. He was recognized all over town by visitors to Sam’s. He enjoyed spending time with family and friends.

Visitation for family and friends will be held from 6pm – 8pm Wednesday, September 15, 2010 in the Cook-Walden Capital Parks Chapel.

The funeral service will be held at 10 am on September 16, 2010 in the Cook-Walden Capital Parks Chapel, Pflugerville. Burial will follow at the Capital Parks Cemetery, 14501 IH 35 in Pflugerville, Texas.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to High Pointe Baptist Church, 12030 Dessau Road, Austin, Texas 78754.

To share memories about Jesse, please visit www.cookwaldencapitalparks.com

Arrangements under the direction of Cook-Walden/Capital Parks Funeral Home and Cemetery, Pflugerville, TX.