James W. Yeldell, Jr.

James Willis Yeldell, Jr., affectionately known as Jim, passed away peacefully at home on March 15, 2024, after a three-year diagnosis of lung cancer. Born on December 12, 1936, in Haynesville, LA, he often recalled his birthdate as "a dozen, a dozen, three dozen," a playful reminder from his mother. Raised in Birmingham, AL, Jim attended Shades Cahaba Middle School, where he was named “Best All-Round” by his peers—a title that would aptly describe his entire life.

Jim, a Shades Valley High School graduate, went to the University of Alabama. There, he developed a passion for geology and met his future wife, Camille. The couple reconnected in New Orleans, where they began dating and married in 1964. They recently celebrated their 60th anniversary.

Jim began his career at Southern Natural Gas Company, echoing his father's professional path. After a stint with Vaughn Petroleum, he joined McWilliams-Moffett Corp. as the fifth employee. Instrumental of the expansion to McMoRan Oil & Gas, he opened offices in Calgary and Denver. His career soared there, staying through its evolution into Freeport McMoRan, a global natural resources corporation, having served as President of McMoRan Oil & Gas. This role included travel to Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Indonesia, and Japan. Upon retirement, Jim returned to exploration as a consultant with CLK.

A fervent Alabama football fan, Jim proudly displayed his "Roll Tide" spirit, much to the chagrin of his LSU neighbors. His joy for life extended to the golf course, enjoying camaraderie and red beans and rice with friends at Metairie Country Club, where he once scored a hole-in-one. In “The Pass,” he cherished prime rib nights at PCYC and boating on the Bay of St. Louis. Porsche became his passion nearly four decades ago, offering thrilling rides to all brave enough to join him. Jim was also a member of various civic, cultural, and carnival organizations.

He leaves behind a loving family: his wife of 60 years, Camille; son, James Willis Yeldell, III (Will) (Michelle); daughter, Lynn Yeldell (Elizabeth Kvale); sister, Janis Yeldell Ruhl (Charles); brother, Charles Yeldell (Nancy); granddaughters, Stephanie Yeldell (Robbie Bruss) and Caroline Yeldell Sanders (Ben); grandson, James Willis Yeldell, IV (James) (Christen Odom); and great-granddaughter, Camille Yeldell.

Jim was often described as a 'legend', a 'gentle giant', and a man of 'big life, smiles, hugs, and height.' His presence was both commanding and comforting. Jim's journey through life was as remarkable as the man himself, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of those he touched. His memory will forever be treasured.

A gathering for family and friends will be held at the Orleans Club, 5005 Saint Charles Ave. in New Orleans, on Thursday, April 18, 2024 beginning at 4:00PM. A service to celebrate Jim’s life will begin at 5:00PM, followed by a catered reception.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the Cancer Crusaders, P.O. Box 7911, Metairie, LA 70010 or to the charity of your choice.

Many people touched his life during his nearly three-year journey with cancer; the family would like to offer special thanks to Dr. Thomas Atkinson, Dr. Robert Miles, Jarrod Borne, Brandi Windham, Ruth Martinez, and the caregivers at Right at Home.

To view and sign the online guest book, please visit www.lakelawnmetairie.com.