James A. Cates, Jr.

James "Jim" A. Cates, Jr. of Bessemer, Alabama passed away on Thursday, February 5th, 2026 at the age of 90.

Born on August 28, 1935, in Centerville, Alabama, to James and Euville (Jackson) Cates, Jim was a man who believed in hard work, a good joke, and a job well done. In 1954, he married the love of his life, Mildred Carroll, who he affectionately called "Buddy". Together, they raised two children, Danny and Barbara, and shared 69 devoted years of marriage.

Jim served the City of Bessemer as a building inspector for over 30 years, though his expertise extended far beyond city duties. He was as handy with a hammer and nail as he was behind the wheel of a tractor or backhoe, and until early last year, he could be found nearly every day working in his wood shop.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents, and his cherished wife, Mildred, He is survived by his son, Danny Cates (Shelia); his daughter, Barbara Blackwell (Bruce); and his brother, Luke Cates (Bonnie). He was also a proud "Gaga" to his four grandchildren, Kayla Cates Knight (Bradley), Jesse Blackwell, Michelle Blackwell Marcuson (Paul), and Kristine Cates Lamar (Josh); and to seven great-grandchildren, Elijah Knight, Everly Knight, Braden Marcuson, Ethan Marcuson, Garett Marcuson, Olivia Marcuson and Jude Lamar.

A graveside service will be held Thursday, February 12, 2026 at 11:00 AM at Bessemer Hopewell Road Church of God of Prophecy with his dear friend Rev. William T. Pritchett officiating. 

Patterson Forest Grove Funeral Home is honored to serve the Cates family during their time of bereavement. Expressions of sympathy and condolences may be shared at www.pattersonfuneralhomes.com.

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