Raymond (Bubba) Jennings Yates

Raymond (Bubba) Jennings Yates 67, of Jackson, Mo., succumbed to Alzheimer’s at Lutheran Home on July 11, 2019. He was born Jan. 3, 1952 in Blytheville and was a 1970 graduate of Blytheville High School. Ray was a member of New McKendree Methodist Church in Jackson, Mo. Also, he was a member of the Masonic Lodge.

Ray is survived by his beloved wife, Mariola Yates of Jackson, Mo.; a son, Jason Yates of Amory, Miss.; two grandsons, Parker Yates of Gosnell and Cameron Yates of Houlka, Miss. Additionally, Ray is survived by three step-daughters, Michelle Glueck of Cape Girardeau, Mo., Sarah Jo (Eric) Kelley, and Anna (T.J.) De Bie; and three step-grandchildren, Jackson and Monroe of Ste. Genevieve, Mo., and Case of Wellington, Colo.

Ray loved sports, especially baseball and golf. As a Little Leaguer pitcher, Ray pitched a perfect game, striking out all 18 batters. This record still holds true in Blytheville. He achieved two hole in ones, and he enjoyed following the Arkansas Razorbacks and Saint 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 in Paragould at the Paragould Country Club on July 18, 4-8 p.m.

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

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

Ford & Sons Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.