Walter "James" Yates

Walter "James" Yates, 78 of Atlanta, GA died Thursday, October 26, 2023 at Columbus Hospice House.

A graveside service will be held 12:00 PM, Sunday, November 12, 2023 at Parkhill Cemetery, 4161 Macon Rd, Columbus, GA 31907, according to McMullen Funeral Home and Crematory, 3874 Gentian Blvd. Columbus, GA 31907.

James was born on March 13, 1945 in Fort Benning, GA to the late Walter Wallace Yates, and Frances Elizabeth Hobbs. After graduating from Columbus High School James honorably served his country with the United States Navy for over a period of four years as a Radio Mechanic. While in the Navy, he saw service in both Vietnam and Korea; his last duty assignment was on the USS Berkley. His awards and decorations include the Vietnam Service Medal with four Bronze Stars, Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal (Korea), National Defense Service Medal, and a Combat Action Ribbon. After his service in the Navy, James moved to Atlanta, GA where he embraced his true passion; the arts, reading, traveling. James formed close relationships with many people during his life and travels.

He is survived by his sister, Kathy Senn (Gene), nieces, Stephanie Carden (James) of Fayetteville, GA, Shannon Jackson Phenix City, AL, Lisa Phillips, Columbus, GA, nephew Wayne Phillips (Sandra) Fayetteville, GA, 8 great-nieces, 2 great-nephews, 3 great-great nieces   one great-great nephew

In lieu of flowers, please feel free to donate to a charity of your choice.