Raymond Yates

Raymond “Bubba” Jennings Yates, 67, of Jackson succumbed to Alzheimer’s disease Thursday, July 11, 2019, at The Lutheran Home in Cape Girardeau.

He was born Jan. 3, 1952, in Blytheville, Arkansas, and was a 1970 graduate of Blytheville High School.

Ray was a member of New McKendree Methodist Church in Jackson. Also, he was a member of the Masonic Lodge.

Ray is survived by his beloved wife, Mariola Yates of Jackson; a son, Jason Yates of Amory, Mississippi; and two grandsons, Parker Yates of Gosnell, Arkansas, and Cameron Yates of Houlka, Mississippi. Additionally, Ray is survived by three stepdaughters, Michelle Glueck of Cape Girardeau; Sarah Jo (Eric) Kelley and two stepgrandchildren, Jackson and Monroe of Ste. Genevieve, Missouri; and Anna (T.J.) De Bie and stepgrandson, Case of Wellington, Colorado.

Ray loved sports, especially baseball and golf. As a Little League pitcher, Ray pitched a perfect game, striking out all 18 batters. This record still holds true in Blytheville. He achieved two holes-in-one, and he enjoyed following the Arkansas Razorbacks and St. Louis Cardinals.

Ray worked at the Blytheville Police Department, where he also achieved many awards and commendations and was promoted to sergeant before retiring in 2005.

Ray was an avid collector of baseball cards, knives and anything of value. He loved a good deal! Ray loved duck hunting, taking every opportunity to go. He also loved being with his friends and family!

A celebration of Ray’s life and memorial will be from 4 to 8 p.m. Thursday, July 18, at the Paragould Country Club in Paragould, Arkansas.

In lieu of flowers, a scholarship has been set up in honor of Ray to benefit youngsters with baseball-equipment needs in Houlka. Contributions may be sent to The Bank of Missouri in Jackson or may be given to Mariola.

Online condolences may be made at www.fordandsonsfuneralhome.com.

Ford and Sons Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.